Where to Find the Best College Scholarships in Texas

If you're a high school senior in Texas, chances are college is on your mind—and so is how to pay for it. The good news? You're not alone, and you have more options than you might think. From state-based scholarships to university aid, Texas students have access to a wide range of resources. And with the right approach, financing your college education is more manageable than ever.

 

One of the most important steps you can take is filling out the FAFSA— also known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. In fact, completing the FAFSA is now a graduation requirement for public high school students in Texas. It’s your gateway to grants, scholarships in Texas, work-study programs, and even low-interest federal loans. Even if you think you might not qualify for much aid, filling out the FAFSA opens more doors than it closes. Some schools, including Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU), use it to award institutional scholarships. The earlier you submit, the more likely you are to receive the best possible aid package.

 

Beyond the FAFSA, Texas offers a variety of scholarship opportunities that can make a big impact on your financial future. Programs like the TEXAS Grant or the Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG) help eligible students cover the cost of attending public and private colleges across the state. These aren’t obscure, hard-to-reach scholarships—many students don’t realize they qualify until they apply. You can also find scholarship databases through trusted sources like the Texas Comptroller's office or well-established platforms like RaiseMe and Scholarships.com, which filter scholarships based on your location, interests, and academic background.

 

While statewide and national scholarships get a lot of attention, don’t underestimate your local community. Many civic organizations, nonprofits, and regional foundations offer scholarships in Texas specifically for students in their area. These awards may be smaller than national programs, but they’re often less competitive—and every dollar counts when you’re putting together your financial plan.

 

As you search for scholarships in Texas, it’s also important to think about college affordability beyond the sticker price. Schools like Our Lady of the Lake University work hard to keep their education accessible. With a strong commitment to financial aid, OLLU offers generous scholarships and personalized assistance to help students navigate the cost of college. The university’s value is amplified by its small class sizes, academic support, and close-knit campus community—all things that make your college investment go further.

 

So where should you start? Submit your FAFSA. Explore state and private scholarships. Reach out to your future college’s financial aid office. And remember: the process might feel overwhelming at times, but it’s entirely possible to get the education you deserve without taking on overwhelming debt.

Ready to get started? Learn more about scholarships and financial aid at OLLU’s Financial Aid page.