UHCL Expands Hawk Promise to Support More Texas Students
Family income eligibility increases to $100,000 beginning with the Fall 2027 application cycle
Beginning with the Fall 2027 application cycle, the University of Houston-Clear Lake will increase the family income eligibility threshold for its Hawk Promise program, allowing more Texas students to qualify for tuition and mandatory fee support.
Eligible first-time-in-college freshmen and transfer students from families with adjusted gross incomes (AGI) of up to $100,000 may qualify to have their tuition and mandatory fees covered through Hawk Promise. The previous family income threshold was $65,000.
The expanded eligibility reflects UHCL's continued commitment to increasing access to higher education and making a bachelor's degree more affordable for students and families across Texas.
"At UHCL, we believe every student should have the opportunity to earn a college degree without financial barriers standing in the way," said President Richard Walker. “Increasing the Hawk Promise income threshold allows us to support more students and families while advancing our mission of expanding access to higher education.”
Hawk Promise has long supported first-time-in-college students and expanded to include eligible transfer students beginning in Fall 2026. The increased income threshold further broadens access to the program, particularly for middle-income families who may not have previously qualified for assistance.
Transfer students are a defining part of the UHCL community, representing approximately 70% of the university's undergraduate student population. Many begin their educational journey at community colleges or other institutions before transferring to UHCL to complete a bachelor's degree.
"Expanding Hawk Promise to transfer students has been an important step in increasing access to a UHCL education," said Dr. Ann Theodori, vice president for strategic enrollment management. “Combined with the higher income threshold, the Hawk Promise allows us to support more students on their path to a bachelor's degree.”
Students are automatically considered for Hawk Promise through the admissions and financial aid process. A separate Hawk Promise application is not required.
To be eligible, students must meet the program's residency, enrollment, academic and financial aid requirements. Prospective students planning to enroll beginning with the Fall 2027 application cycle are encouraged to apply for admission and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible.
Complete eligibility requirements and application deadlines are available on the UHCL Hawk Promise webpage.