
601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666-4684, USA


Texas State University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, which authorizes the institution to award bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. This regional accreditation ensures that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education. Additionally, various individual programs at the university have earned specialized accreditations from professional organizations, further confirming the rigor and relevance of their curricula for prospective students.
Texas State University requires applicants to have completed the General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent secondary education credential. Submission of secondary school records and ranking is mandatory, while a specific secondary school GPA is recommended but not obligatory. Prospective students must also have participated in a college program. Recommendations and demonstrated competencies are suggested to strengthen the application, though they are not strictly required.
The university mandates the submission of TOEFL scores for applicants who require them, and while no formal admission test scores are specified, other standardized test results are recommended. There is a slight admissions preference given to veterans and first-generation college students, but the university does not operate an open admission policy.
Texas State University accepts credit from advanced placement exams and other credit-earning opportunities, though it does not offer dual credit admission pathways. A computer is not required for admission, but options for computer leasing are available.
Regarding standardized testing performance, the university's average SAT score is 1085, which falls within the lower third nationally, with average section scores of 535 in math and 550 in writing. The average ACT score at Texas State University is 22, placing it in the lower 30 percent nationwide. Despite these moderate score levels, the university experiences very high applicant numbers, with over 37,000 prospective students applying, and maintains a high acceptance rate of approximately 89 percent.
Texas State University requires prospective students to pay an application fee when submitting their admissions materials. The application fee covers the processing costs associated with evaluating each applicant's credentials. For those who may face financial challenges, the university offers fee waivers under specific eligibility criteria, allowing qualified applicants to apply without incurring the standard fee. These waivers are intended to facilitate access for students from diverse economic backgrounds, ensuring that the application cost does not become a barrier to admission.
The process for obtaining a fee waiver typically involves demonstrating financial need, and applicants must provide documentation as outlined by the university's admissions office. It is advised that prospective students review the fee waiver eligibility requirements carefully and submit any necessary paperwork promptly to take advantage of this opportunity. By providing this option, Texas State University seeks to promote inclusivity and support applicants in their pursuit of higher education.
Texas State University hosts an ROTC branch unit directly on its campus, providing students with the opportunity to participate in military training while pursuing their academic studies. This means that students can engage in ROTC programs without the need to commute to a separate institution. Additionally, the university is affiliated with an ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institution, expanding options for those who may wish to explore different military training environments. The availability of both an on-campus ROTC unit and access through a partner school allows prospective students to select a program that best aligns with their personal and academic needs.
Texas State University permits transfer students to apply for enrollment in the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple opportunities throughout the year. The university accepts transfer credits, making it easier for incoming students to continue their academic progress without losing completed coursework. Prospective transfer students benefit from the acceptance of credits earned through CLEP subject exams as well as DANTES examinations, facilitating a smoother transition.
The admissions process for transfer students is considered minimally difficult, reflecting a relatively accessible transfer pathway. Additionally, Texas State University welcomes recommendation letters as part of the transfer application, which can support a candidate's admission prospects.
Texas State University offers a diverse range of study abroad opportunities designed to accommodate various academic interests and durations. Prospective students can participate in faculty-led short-term programs, which provide immersive experiences in specific disciplines while earning course credit. These programs typically last a few weeks during the summer or winter sessions.
For those seeking longer-term experiences, semester and academic year programs are available through partnerships with international institutions. These options allow students to study overseas while fully integrating into the host university's curriculum. They can explore subjects across multiple fields, expanding both academic and cultural perspectives.
Additionally, Texas State University supports exchange programs that facilitate reciprocal enrollment with partner universities. Such exchanges emphasize cultural immersion and foster global connections without necessarily increasing financial burdens.
Students interested in professional development can also find internships and service-learning opportunities abroad, combining experiential learning with international exposure. These programs are often tailored to align with students' career goals and academic requirements.
Median composite SAT score
1085Median composite ACT score
22Percent of students submitting ACT scores
6%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
41%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RecommendedSecondary school rank
RequiredSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedPreferential admissions consideration text
Slight preference for veterans and first-generation studentsOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer