The Texas Hazelwood Act: A Guide for Veterans Pursuing Higher Education

Texas has always been known for its spirit of generosity and support for its veterans. One of the state’s most significant contributions to the welfare of its veterans is the Texas Hazelwood Act. This act offers Texas veterans an unparalleled opportunity to pursue higher education without bearing the full brunt of skyrocketing tuition fees.

What is the Texas Hazelwood Act?

The Texas Hazelwood Act is a state benefit program established in 1943 to provide qualified veterans, and in certain circumstances, their dependent children and spouses, with an exemption from tuition and some fees at public colleges and universities in Texas. This has greatly reduced the financial burden on Texas veterans, allowing many to achieve their educational dreams without accumulating a mountain of student loan debt.

Benefits of the Texas Hazelwood Act

1. Tuition Exemption: The primary benefit of the Hazelwood Act is an exemption from tuition and most fees for up to 150 credit hours at public colleges and universities in Texas. This means that qualified veterans can pursue their undergraduate or graduate degrees without worrying about these costs.
2. Legacy Program: Introduced in 2009, the Hazelwood Act’s Legacy Program allows veterans to transfer unused credit hours to their eligible dependent children, offering a great way to support their child’s education.
3. Extended Benefits: For veterans who meet specific criteria, the act can even extend benefits, ensuring that they get the maximum advantage from this program.

Eligibility Criteria

To benefit from the Texas Hazelwood Act, veterans must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a Texas resident.
2. Have been a member of the U.S. Armed Services, including the Texas National Guard.
3. Have received an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions.
4. Have exhausted federal veterans’ education benefits or ensure they’re not eligible for federal benefits.
5. Have not defaulted on a student loan made or guaranteed by the State of Texas.

Certain other provisions and criteria might also apply, depending on individual circumstances. It’s essential to review the latest eligibility requirements or consult with an educational benefits counselor.

How to Apply for Benefits

If you believe you’re eligible for the Texas Hazelwood Act benefits, follow these steps:

1. Gather Necessary Documentation: This includes your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) to prove military service and type of discharge. If applying for the Legacy Program, you’ll need additional documents to prove the relationship to the dependent.
2. Contact the School: Before enrolling, get in touch with the financial aid office or veteran services office of the public institution you wish to attend. They can guide you on the specifics of the application process. You can
3. Fill Out the Application: Complete the Hazelwood Exemption Application available through the Texas Veterans Commission or the school’s financial aid office.
4. Submit Application and Documentation: Once filled, submit the application, along with all necessary documents, to the institution’s financial aid office.
5. Follow-up: Stay proactive. Check-in with the financial aid office to ensure they’ve received your application and see if any additional information is required.

Conclusion

The Texas Hazelwood Act stands as a testament to Texas’ commitment to its veterans, offering them a pathway to higher education that might otherwise remain closed. By understanding the benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process, Texas veterans can fully harness this golden opportunity to enrich their lives and careers.

If you’re a veteran considering furthering your education, don’t let financial constraints hold you back. Look into the Texas Hazelwood Act and embark on a journey of lifelong learning.