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So, you’re looking at Texas State University and thinking:
“Alright… it’s not UT Austin or Texas A&M. But it’s in a great location, the vibe seems right, and it’s got strong programs in business, education, nursing, and the health sciences. Plus, it’s a respected research university - so yeah, maybe this could work. But can I actually afford its tuition?”
Well - depends on who’s asking.
If you’re out-of-state or international, tuition alone jumps to over $24,520 per year, and that’s before you even step into a dorm, buy a textbook, or grab a taco in San Marcos.
But here’s the twist: most people don’t realize how much of that you can actually avoid. Like, not just shave off a few bucks, we’re talking bringing it way down.
Keep reading. I’ll show you exactly how to do it.
Straight from the CDS (Common Data Set)
Here’s what Texas State actually looks at when reviewing your app:
Very Important: GPA, class rank, course rigor (Honors/AP/IB)
Considered: SAT/ACT (optional but helpful), extracurriculars, volunteer work, work experience, first-gen status, talents, personal qualities
Not Considered: Interviews, recommendation letters, alumni relation, religious affiliation, demonstrated interest
Academic Profile (aka Your Stats)
Texas State isn’t asking for perfection, but they are looking for students who can handle college-level work. Strong academics matter, especially your GPA and coursework.
Academic GPA, class rank, and course rigor are key
SAT/ACT scores are optional, but helpful for scholarships
Test scores range:
SAT: 990–1200
ACT: 19–25
About GPA:
Texas State doesn’t report GPA ranges in the CDS, but based on trends, a 2.9+ unweighted GPA gives you a solid shot.
For scholarships, aim for 3.5+.
For international students: If you’re applying from a system like HSC/SSC or A-levels, try to hit the top marks - A averages, or a 5.0 GPA.
And even though SAT/ACT is optional, a 1300+ SAT or 28+ ACT can really boost your chances and open doors to higher scholarships.
For Bangladeshi students:
A GPA of 4.5+ out of 5.0 is strong. If you're lower, a 1200+ SAT helps a lot.
We’ll talk more about academic requirements tied to scholarships in the next section.
Scholarships at TXST - Broken Down
According to TXST One Stop, if you're an out-of-state or international student and receive any Texas State scholarship worth at least $1,000, you automatically qualify for in-state tuition, saving you $12,000+ per year.
Texas State doesn’t just hand out a few discounts - they’ve got scholarships that range from a couple thousand dollars to full rides and beyond, including housing stipends and bonus perks. And they’re not all the same.
There are awards for academic merit, leadership, talent, major-specific achievements, and even competitive scholarships that go above and beyond.
Competitive Merit Scholarships
If your academic profile is strong (think high GPA, test scores, or top class rank), you may qualify for competitive scholarships that go beyond tuition: some include housing, meals, and even stipends.
These awards are limited and competitive.
Require additional application.
Deadline to be considered: December 15 (Fall 2025 entry)
Start Here 👇
This page breaks down everything - deadlines, award levels, and how to apply. Bookmark it.
If you’re applying to top schools anyway, definitely go for this tier - the value can rival private schools with big aid packages.
Let’s break down the rest of the scholarship tiers, all of which can still make a big dent in your cost of attendance.
National Distinction Scholarship (U.S. Citizens Only)
$10,000/year ($40,000 total)
Must be a National Merit Finalist
Choose TXST as first-choice school by May 31
Renewal: 3.5 GPA + 28 hrs/year
President’s Honor Scholarship
Texas State Achievement Scholarship
Texas State Distinguished Scholarship
All of these also trigger in-state tuition if you’re out-of-state or international.
Renewal Rules (All Scholarships)
To keep your scholarship:
Maintain a 3.25 GPA
Complete 28 credit hours per year (Fall + Spring)
Be full-time, undergrad, and degree-seeking
Important Deadlines Recap:
Competitive merit scholarships: Apply by December 15
Regular scholarship priority deadline: Apply by March 1
What About Essays & Résumés?
Texas State doesn’t require an essay for admission, but it can still help your case.
Send the best one you wrote for another school. It shows who you are and gives context for your achievements.
Also: submit a résumé.
One page. Clean and clear.
Add:
Clubs and leadership
Volunteer work
Jobs and side hustles
Internships or passion projects
Anything that shows you’ve put in work and taken initiative.
Underrated Tips That Could Give You an Edge
These are the moves most students miss, but they can seriously boost your outcome:
✅ Apply early. Submit by December 15 for competitive scholarships, or by March 1 for general awards.
✅ Look into competitive merit scholarships. Some go beyond full tuition and include housing, meals, or stipends.
✅ Live off-campus to save big. Apartments in San Marcos shared with roommates can run $400–$600/month.
First-year and under 20? Request a housing exemption.
✅ Use the in-state tuition hack. Any $1,000+ scholarship = in-state tuition. You save $12,000+ just like that.
✅ Apply through the BOSS portal. The Bobcat Online Scholarship System is full of awards that often get few applicants.
✅ International students can work on campus. You can work up to 20 hours/week — dining halls, offices, labs, you name it.
✅ San Marcos is a win. College town energy, great nature, and only 30 minutes from Austin - with a much lower cost of living.
Texas State might not have been your first choice, but with the right moves, it can be your smartest one. Stack the right scholarships, lock in in-state tuition, and you’re walking into a quality education without the crushing price tag.