New trust is for those looking for their first bachelor’s degree at the school, the program covers full tuition and mandatory fees for up to four years.
DALLAS — A breakthrough opportunity for aspiring college graduates in Texas has developed at the University of North Texas at Dallas.
UNT Dallas announced Friday the launch of its Trailblazer Tuition Trust, which intends to cover full tuition and mandatory fees for up to four years for eligible Texas high school graduates pursuing their first bachelor’s degree at the university.
In a likely nod not only to its expected effect on the students it will welcome, their families and the university itself, a release detailing the launch of the trust calls it a “transformative new program.”
University President Dr. Warren von Eschenbach spoke at an event announcing the Trailblazer Tuition Trust at the school’s Campus Hall Friday.
“UNT Dallas remains committed to providing access to those for whom higher education historically has been out of reach,” Dr. von Eschenbach said. “Universities are about people and community. We are a beacon of hope and promise for many. This is the transformative power of education.”
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The trust is being positioned to benefit Texas families earning a total income of $100,000 or less. As an institution, UNT Dallas says it has a renewed mission to make a four-year-university education attainable for Texas families, while preparing graduates for purposeful lives and resilient careers in a rapidly evolving workforce.
Additional eligibility standards include graduating from a Texas high school, residency in Texas and being eligible for both the Federal Pell Grant and Priority Texas Grant funding. Those interested in receiving the trust this year will have to be admitted to UNT Dallas and have a valid FAFSA on file by June 1st. Renewals will be available each year for students who maintain a 3.0 cumulative Grade Point Average at the school, remain in good academic standing and stay enrolled for a minimum of 12 credit hours in both fall and spring semesters.
Funds for the trust are to be provided through a combination of federal, state, and institutional grants and scholarships, ensuring eligible students can complete their degree without the burden of tuition costs, according to the University’s release.
UNT Dallas touts itself as the only public four-year university in the city of Dallas. It currently serves more than 3,500 students at its southern Dallas campus.