Academic Common Market Waiver

Program Purpose

To allow Texas residents to pay resident tuition rates if their graduate program of study is not already offered at a Texas public institution.

NOTE: This webpage is intended to provide basic information for the public by highlighting requirements that appear in the Texas Education Code (TEC) and Texas Administrative Code (TAC). When reviewing eligibility requirements this exemption program, you should always refer to the relevant statutes and rules. The information on this webpage is to be used solely as a resource and does not override the statute or rules for this exemption program. It is not intended as, and does not constitute, legal advice.

Eligibility Requirements

Students who:

  • Are accepted for admission or enrolled in master's or doctoral degree programs for which Texas has gained access through the Academic Common Market; and
  • Are residents of Texas.

Students must complete a residency questionnaire, have it notarized, and return it to the office of the Texas ACM coordinator. A copy of the notice of admission from the college or university must accompany the form.

Eligible Institutions

Must be a public (state-supported) college or university in a state approved to participate in the Academic Common Market coordinated by the Southern Regional Education Board. Currently, the following southern states participate in the ACM:

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas
  • Delaware
  • Florida*
  • Georgia
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Mississippi
  • Oklahoma
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Texas*
  • Virginia
  • West Virginia.

*Florida and Texas participate at the graduate level only. Independent (private) colleges and universities are not eligible to participate in the ACM.

Application Process

Contact the Texas ACM Coordinator, Jessica Acton at 512-427-6214 or via email at Jessica.Acton@thecb.state.tx.us.

Additional Information

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