Relating to financial assistance funded from the amounts of certain fees charged to students enrolled at public institutions of higher education.
Impact
The bill is significant in how it restructures the allocation of financial resources within Texas's higher education system. By ensuring that substantial portions of tuition revenue are redirected towards financial assistance, SB1765 aims to make higher education more accessible to resident students who might otherwise struggle with the costs. This could alleviate some burdens from families and contribute to a broader effort of increasing educational attainment in the state.
Summary
SB1765 aims to enhance financial assistance mechanisms for students at public institutions of higher education in Texas. It mandates that a portion of designated tuition and student fees should be allocated to scholarships and assistance for resident undergraduate and graduate students. Specifically, it requires institutions to set aside at least 20% of excess tuition fees for undergraduates and 15% for graduate students, targeting those who demonstrate financial need as defined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
Contention
There may be debates surrounding the implementation and effectiveness of SB1765. Some stakeholders may have concerns about whether the percentage set aside for financial aid is sufficient, especially in light of rising tuition costs. Additionally, funding mechanisms from which these percentages will be derived, particularly regarding student fees first imposed after the 2009 fall semester, might also be points of contention in discussions about budget allocations for public universities.
Additional_points
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is tasked with disseminating information about financial assistance programs, which signifies a state-level commitment to transparency and awareness. The effectiveness of this provision could largely depend on how effectively this information is communicated to students and their families, thus affecting the uptake and impact of the financial assistance provided under SB1765.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.