Relating to student Internet access to financial and academic information maintained by public institutions of higher education and to a fixed tuition rate provided by certain institutions of higher education to students for satisfactory academic performance.
Impact
This legislation is expected to improve transparency and facilitate better financial planning for students, making it easier for them to track and manage their education-related expenses. By requiring schools to make essential financial and academic information readily available online, SB667 seeks to empower students in their educational journeys and encourage informed decision-making. The establishment of a fixed tuition rate based on satisfactory academic performance further aims to stabilize tuition costs for eligible students, thereby promoting affordability in higher education.
Summary
SB667 aims to enhance student access to financial and academic information at public institutions of higher education in Texas. Specifically, the bill mandates that each institution must provide a method for students to access their current financial status, which includes amounts owed for tuition and fees, details on financial aid, and any outstanding loan balances. Additionally, the bill requires institutions to provide students with information regarding their academic status, such as course enrollments, completed courses, and degree requirements, through the institution's website.
Contention
The bill is likely to spark discussions about the implications of consistency in financial disclosures and how this may affect varying institutions differently. Concerns may arise regarding the administrative burden placed on institutions to ensure compliance with these new requirements and whether they will be able to maintain the quality of educational services while enhancing transparency. Furthermore, the eligibility criteria for fixed tuition rates could lead to disparities in access, particularly for students facing genuine hardships.
Relating to providing information to undergraduate students regarding certain fixed or flat tuition rates provided by certain public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.