A 72% Surge: Texas Leads the Nation in First-Gen College Applications

A surge in first-generation college applicants is transforming Texas’ higher education landscape. Recent data shows a staggering 72% increase in applications from Texans who would be the first in their families to attend college, outpacing all other states by a wide margin. The state’s higher education leaders attribute this momentum to targeted initiatives like MyTexasFuture.org and free dual-credit courses, both designed to help students visualize and plan for a future that includes a degree or credential.

“Texas is experiencing broad growth in college applications,” said Brian Kim, director of data science, research, and analytics at the Common App. “What’s interesting about the continuing versus first-generation stats in particular, is that first-generation students are increasing at a much more rapid rate.”

Behind this push is a larger economic imperative. Texas aims to ensure that 60% of its working-age population holds a higher education credential, a benchmark it’s still far from reaching. As job markets increasingly demand postsecondary training, state officials recognize that empowering first-generation students—often facing financial and systemic barriers—is key to filling the gap, as reported by the Austin American-Statesman.

Affordability remains a central concern. With many families struggling to shoulder college costs, the Texas Legislature has responded by waiving application fees during a designated “free college application week” and boosting financial aid guarantees for students who qualify. The UT System has also committed to tuition-free education for households earning under $100,000, a move aimed at widening access further. 

Graduation rates for first-generation students remain disproportionately low, and ongoing support, from advising to financial aid navigation, will be essential to helping students cross the finish line. “Access is just the start,” said Deputy Commissioner Sarah Keyton. “Now we have to support them all the way to graduation, and ensure that credential delivers real value in the workforce.”