Military: Children of U.S. Military who are Missing in Action or Prisoners of War (MIA/POWs)

The purpose of this program is to provide an education benefit to the children of persons listed as Missing in Action or Prisoners of War by the U.S. Department of Defense.

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.

• Are Texas residents;
• Are 21 years of age or younger, or 25 years of age or younger and receiving most of his/her support from a parent;
• Have documentation from the Department of Defense that a parent, who is classified as a Texas resident, is missing in action or a prisoner of war; and 
• Enroll in classes for which the college receives tax support (i.e., a course that does not depend solely on student tuition and fees to cover its costs).

New Requirements Fall, 2014

Senate Bill 1210 (83rd Texas Legislature, Regular Session) adds a Grade Point Average requirement for persons to receive continuation awards through the program. The Bill also establishes a Limit to the Total Number of Hours, cumulative, that a student may take and continue to receive awards through this program. These changes go into effect in fall, 2014. Contact your institution for more information.

Available only for use at a Texas public college or university.

To access listings of Texas public colleges and universities, follow the links to Texas Public Institutions.

Tuition, service fees, lab fees, building use fees, and all other fees except room, board or clothing fees, or deposits in the nature of security for the return or proper care of property. No funds may be used to pay tuition for continuing education classes for which the college receives no state tax support.

Contact the registrar for additional information on this exemption.

• Contact your college for additional information.

• To read more about this program check out:

  Texas Education Code, 54.343

• Contact Us!