Waiver Program for Registered Nurses Enrolled in Postgraduate Nursing Degree Programs

Program Purpose

To provide a waiver of nonresident tuition for registered nurses enrolled in graduate nursing programs offered by public institutions in Texas.

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. 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 registered nurses.
• Are authorized to practice professional nursing in Texas.
• Enroll in a program designed to lead to a master’s degree or other higher degree in nursing.
• Intend to teach in a program in Texas designed to prepare students for licensure as registered nurses.

Non-immigrant aliens are eligible for this program if they are authorized to practice professional nursing in Texas and have a BCIS status that will allow them to remain in Texas and work.

Eligible Institutions

The waiver applies to eligible students attending public institutions of higher education (colleges and universities) in Texas that offer graduate studies in professional nursing and choose to offer the waiver to their students.

Application Process

Contact the registrar’s office of the public college or university for information and/or assistance in claiming this exemption.

Additional Information

• Generally, student eligibility for a waiver must be established prior to or at the time of enrollment. Contact your college for additional information.
• To read more about this program, check out TEC Section 54.251.
• Online Inquiries: Contact Us (select “Financial Aid Question” as the subject under Contact Reason)