AUSTIN (KXAN) — In a Wednesday letter to Texas universities and colleges, Gov. Greg Abbott said undergraduate tuition and fee increases in the next two years are prohibited.
Abbott said in the letter this is a way for public universities to “ease the financial burden on our students and their families.”
“As this tuition freeze expires, let me be clear: I will not support any tuition increase at any public
higher education institution in the upcoming biennium. My office has spoken to the Board of
Regents at every public university system, and we are in agreement that no institution in Texas
should approve tuition increases for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic school years,” he said.
Abbott said that the state has invested in higher education, which includes “increased funding for universities and financial aid programs” to ensure that a higher education “remains accessible and affordable for all Texans.”
“When all Texans have access to quality and affordable education, they can earn better wages, meet workforce qualifications, and experience a higher quality of life,” Abbott said. “I will ensure college affordability remains a top priority for the state as we head into the next legislative session.”
A spokesperson with the University of Texas tells KXAN that the University shares Gov Abbott’s passion for finding new and innovative ways to make higher education more affordable and accessible, especially for those with limited financial means.
Read the full letter from Abbott provided by his office below:
Lawmakers Respond
“As a student at UT Austin, I led efforts to stop a proposed tuition increase. I’m grateful that Texas students won’t have to take out extra loans just to get their shot at the American dream, and call on Governor Abbott to prioritize real reforms that make college affordable for every Texan.”-Rep. James Talarico
“While I appreciate Governor Abbott’s focus on keeping tuition costs manageable, we must recognize that simply freezing tuition rates is not enough to address the broader financial challenges facing our higher education institutions. Rising inflation, increased operational costs, and the need for enhanced student services are putting pressure on our universities. We cannot afford to let these financial pressures compromise the quality of education or the resources available to students.
During the 88th Legislative Session, we took an important step forward with House Bill 8, which increased investment in higher education and financial aid. This was a critical move in ensuring that more Texans have access to quality education, and that our universities are equipped to prepare the next generation of leaders, innovators, and workers. However, this is just the beginning. To maintain a competitive workforce and support the economic future of our state, we need to continue these investments. Freezing tuition without addressing the funding needs of our universities could result in underfunded programs, larger class sizes, and fewer resources for students—ultimately diminishing the value of a college education in Texas.
Investing in higher education is investing in our state’s future. We need to ensure our colleges and universities are adequately funded so that they can continue to offer the programs, faculty, and support systems that are essential for preparing our workforce. I’m committed to continuing the conversation and finding sustainable solutions to keep college affordable while maintaining the high standards of education our students deserve.” —Rep. Donna Howard