Meet Texas A&M In State Tuition Requirements & Save Thousands

Save Thousands On Out Of State Tuition By Meeting Texas A&M In State Tuition Requirements

Texas A&M In State Tuition Requirements FAQ

Most families have questions when they are considering buying an investment property to establish residency for in-state tuition at Texas A&M University. We understand that and are here to help guide you through the process.

Establishing Texas residency is a legitimate and legal method to qualify for in-state tuition at the Texas A&M. This process applies statewide to out-of-state students attending any public university in Texas, not just Texas A&M.

Texas offers a unique opportunity for families to lower tuition costs by purchasing property, thereby increasing the state’s tax base. This method incentivizes real estate investment, which helps grow the local economy and, by extension, supports property value appreciation.

Is this legitimate? Why would Texas offer a program like this?

Establishing Texas residency is a legitimate and legal way to qualify for in-state tuition.

Texas Education Code (TEC) Section 54.052 authorizes persons classified as Texas residents to pay in-state tuition, a rate of tuition that is generally three times lower than for those classified as nonresidents.

Texas does not have an income tax; instead, tax revenue is generated by property taxes.  By incentivizing out-of-state families to invest in Texas, the tax base grows, and the property values rise. It’s a win for everyone involved.

The University’s Office of Admissions Texas Residency page details Texas residency classifications and the requirements for establishing domicile in Texas as permitted by Texas law.

What does Tower Realty College Station do?

Tower Realty College Station, and its sister firm Tower Realty Austin, specialize in helping out-of-state students attending public colleges and universities in Texas qualify for in-state tuition through a property purchase. Tower Realty was founded by Chesney Coker, a lifelong Texan, in 2006 and is an established leader in the campus housing market. Our College Station firm was established to continue helping out-of-state students obtain residency and qualify for in-state tuition at Texas A&M.

Can I talk to someone who has gone through the residency process?

Yes. Across our two firms, Tower Realty has helped over 500 families (and counting) qualify for in-state tuition by purchasing real estate in Texas.  Introductions to families who can give you reassurance in the process and outcome are a routine part of our sales process, and we are happy to coordinate a conversation.

How does Texas residency work?  What steps do I need to take to meet the Texas A&M in state tuition requirements?

Generally speaking, there are three steps:

1. Purchase a property in Texas.
2. Establish the property as your student’s primary residence.
3. After 12 months, apply for reclassification via the Texas A&M Office of the Registrar.

Of course, there are tasks and logistics to coordinate within each of these steps, and Tower Realty has ushered many families through the process. We are with you through the entire journey, from choosing the property, negotiations,  closing, property management, and maintenance, all the way to qualifying for in-state tuition rates.  Tower Realty is the Texas residency expert for out-of-state families.

Does my child have to live in the property?

Typically freshmen choose to live on campus, which coincides with the 12-month period required for establishing domicile.  Tower Realty College Station can help property owners find qualified tenants for renting or leasing their property, collecting rent, and managing property maintenance issues.

Once your student establishes Texas residency (typically coinciding with their sophomore year), they have the option to live in the unit they purchased.

What are the other costs associated with owning this property?

Aside from any mortgage on the property, owners can expect to pay for routine repairs to their property, as well as yearly real estate taxes, homeowners association dues, and supplemental insurance (if desired).

How is the property managed?

Tower Realty College Station can manage your College Station property. Our team can handle all property management tasks from finding tenants to collecting rent and paying utilities. We handle all the contracts, repairs, and upkeep. You won’t have to worry about your property when you work with Tower Realty College Station.

Can this law change and cause me to lose my investment?

According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the number of students who met statutory requirements for establishing Texas resident status for in-state tuition under TEC 54.052(a)(3) totaled 25,930 in FY 2017, or 1.5 percent of the total enrollment at Texas public institutions of higher education.

Given the relatively small percentage of students obtaining Texas residency by these means, we do not anticipate a threat to the statute.

This issue is a state issue, not a university issue. As long as everyone benefits, it will remain. The Texas legislature only meets every other year. Changes to the existing law would have to be introduced as new legislation, voted on, and then implemented, which is not a fast process. If you are reading this, you would be grandfathered into the current requirements.

Will I get a return on my investment?  Is this guaranteed?

While real estate markets have inherent risks, and no investment is guaranteed, there is sufficient and steady demand for properties in the college area. Tower Realty College Station has helped many families sell their properties once their student has graduated.

Have more questions about in state tuition requirements at Texas A&M? Get in touch with us. We’d love to help answer any questions you have about the process.