Texas Tech University

Tuition-Free Program

The State of Texas has designated Texas Tech K-12 as eligible to receive state funds, allowing us to offer a tuition-free K-12 online academic program for students who are full-time Texas residents. This program is in addition to the other enrollment options we provide.

Texas Tech K-12 Provides:

Free Online Full-Time Course Enrollments: Funded by the State of Texas, allowing students to access high-quality, flexible education at no cost.

Free Registration: Enroll your student in the Texas Tech K-12 Diploma Program at no charge.

Free Access to Online Textbooks: All required textbooks for your student's courses will be provided at no cost.

Parent/Guardian Provides:

Student Computer: The student must have access to a computer that meets the minimum technology requirements.

Reliable, High-Speed Internet Access: A stable internet connection is required for online learning.

Graphing Calculator: Required for certain math courses.

General School Supplies: Items such as spiral notebooks, pens, pencils and highlighters.

Household Supplies for Specialty Courses: Common items that may be needed for art, science and other specialty classes.

Enrollment Options for Potential Students

Enrollment Requirements

If you are applying to Texas Tech K-12's tuition-free program and are a Texas resident, please note that enrollment is limited. State law requires a lottery system to select students for admission each semester.

Fall Lottery: Held before the start of the new school year (August/September).

Spring/Mid-Year Lottery: Held in January for students transferring mid-year.

Enrollment will continue until the pre-established cap is reached. In between lotteries, enrollment may open if space becomes available.

You will need to submit the following documents for your application to be processed:

  • Birth Certificate
  • Proof of Texas Residency
  • Unofficial Transcript

For homeschool students, please also provide a transcript and be prepared to take Credit By Exams (CBE) for grade placement.


Tuition-Free Application and Lottery Information (2024-2025)

If you are applying to Texas Tech K-12's tuition-free program and are a Texas resident, please note that enrollment is limited. State law requires a lottery system to select students for admission each semester.

First Semester: Course enrollments open Aug. 2, with courses starting anytime between Aug. 2 and Aug. 31. We recommend starting early to maximize success and take breaks. Courses must be completed by Jan. 15.

Second Semester: Course enrollments open Dec. 16, with courses starting anytime between Dec. 16 and Jan. 31. Courses must be completed by June 30.

Tuition-Free Course Enrollment Dates (2024-2025)

Texas Tech K-12 offers flexible enrollment, with courses open within the following windows:

  • First Semester: Course enrollments open on Aug. 2nd. Students may start courses between Aug. 2 and Aug. 31. Courses must be completed by January 15.
  • Second Semester: Course enrollments open Dec. 16. Students may start courses between Dec. 16 and Jan. 31. Courses must be completed by June 30.

Required 2024-2025 STAAR/EOC Testing Dates:

  • Fall EOC (End of Course Exams):
    • Dec. 3 - 13: English I, II
    • Dec. 3 - 13: Biology, Algebra I, U.S. History
  • Spring EOC:
    • April 8 - 18: English I, II
    • April 15 - 25: Biology, U.S. History
    • April 22 - May 2: Algebra I
  • Spring STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness):
    • April 8 - 18: Grades 3-8 Reading
    • April 15 - 25: Grade 5 & 8 Science, Grade 8 Social Studies
    • April 22 - May 2: Grades 3-8 Math
  • Summer EOC:
    • June 17 - 27: Algebra I, Biology, U.S. History, English I & II

Please note: Students will be contacted by the Texas Tech testing team with specific testing sites, dates, and times before each testing window. Travel to the nearest test site will be required.


Additional Information

  • Automatic Re-Enrollment: If you have already enrolled in the tuition-free program and are in good standing, no reapplication is required. You will be automatically admitted for the next academic year.
  • Lottery Notification: Applications are evaluated as they are submitted. You will be notified via email or phone.
  • Enrollment Limits: Admissions are subject to space availability by grade level. If the enrollment cap is reached, a lottery drawing will take place.
  • Tuition-Paid Programs: Enrollments for tuition-paid programs can occur at any time as long as space is available.

For more details about our programs and resources, please visit our Student Resources page.

This program offers an incredible opportunity to access a high-quality, fully accredited education at no cost to eligible Texas residents. Apply today and give your child the education they deserve!