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Regents' Scholars Program

The Regents' Scholarship is designed to assist first-generation college students in achieving their educational goals at Texas A&M University. Nine hundred students will receive up to $5,000 per year for up to four years.

Eligibility
You must be a first-generation college student (neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree). Your family’s adjusted gross income must be less than $40,000 per year as verified through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You must meet the requirements of the Regents’ Scholarship Program and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). Award eligibility varies based on Enrollment Status. For details, please visit the Award Proration information page.

Additionally, you are required to have earned 30 hours by the end of your first academic year, 60 hours by the end of your second academic year, and 90 hours by the end of your third academic year. An academic year includes the fall, spring, and summer terms. Hours earned via transfer credit, dual credit, and AP/IB testing may be used to meet the 30/60/90 rule.
Duration
The award is a four-year award, pending Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), meeting the 30/60/90 hour rule each academic year, and completing the Regents’ Scholarship Program requirements.
Application
You must have a completed FAFSA on file with Texas A&M University prior to January 15. You should complete your FAFSA as soon as possible, or by January 1 at the latest to ensure it will be processed by Texas A&M in time for the January 15 priority deadline. To determine whether or not you might be eligible to receive one of these scholarships, please visit our Regents' Scholarship Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

Note: This program is limited to approximately 900 students each year. These scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis as students have completed their financial aid application, turned in all requested documentation and our office has verified eligibility.
First Year Requirements
Live on campus
You should apply for housing through the on-campus housing website at reslife.tamu.edu within 30 days of being admitted to Texas A&M University for priority housing or by May 1 at the latest; however we suggest applying for housing as soon as possible. Living on campus is an important part of the college experience. As an on-campus resident, you will have the opportunity to live in a community, get involved in residence halls and campus events, have access to trained residence life staff members for advice, make lasting friendships, and have easier access to classes and extracurricular activities.
Attend the Regents’ Scholars Orientation
Each fall, first year Regents’ Scholars participate in the Regents’ Scholars Orientation prior to the start of classes. The orientation is held during Howdy Week, Aggieland’s Official Week of Welcome. You will have the opportunity to learn information on financial aid management, academic life, and student life.
Participate in an Academic Success Program
Regents’ Scholars participate in an Academic Success Program as designated by their college during their first year at Texas A&M. Success programs provide first year students the best academic start for college and provide skills and knowledge to excel in their academic, professional, and personal lives. Programs typically have designated courses, out of classroom learning experiences, social and service activities, and peer or faculty mentors.
Attend the Regents’ Scholars Spring Reception
You will attend the spring reception at the end of your first year. Students are meant to reflect on their past year while enjoying a dinner with their fellow Regents’ Scholars.
Maintaining Eligibility after the first year
  • Complete the FAFSA and continue to possess financial need as defined by the Department of Education.
  • Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) as defined by the Scholarships & Financial Aid Office, and earn the appropriate hours to meet 30/60/90 hour rule.
More information can be found in the Regents' Scholars Program FAQ brochure and in the Scholarship Handbook.

“With the Regents' Scholarship I was able to attend Texas A&M without having a financial burden on my family. Thanks to the Regents' Scholarship many other first-generation students and I have the opportunity to break the cycle and graduate from one of the top universities in Texas. I am setting an example for my community by stepping out of my comfort zone and taking this great opportunity the Regents' Scholarship has given me. “
- Reyna Chavarri ‘18
The Regents’ Scholars Orientation Planning Board (OPB) formed as the result of the recommendation by Regents’ Scholars Program staff to plan, coordinate and implement the Regents’ Scholars Orientation.

The OPB plans and implements the Regents’ Scholars Orientation, a two-hour meeting for all first year recipients of the Regents’ Scholarship. The orientation provides information on financial aid including the requirements of the Regents’ Scholarship and refund management, academic life including free academic assistance on-campus, student life, and provides opportunities for the students to create connections with their peers. 

The Orientation Planning Board (OPB) consists of five to seven students who work together to plan the upcoming Regents’ Scholars Orientation. Selected by the OPB, Orientation Counselors (OCs) help manage the Regents’ Scholars Orientation by providing guidance to first year recipients during the event.

“With the Regents’ Scholarship, I am able to work with amazing advisors to make the transition to college wonderful so that I can grow as a leader and exemplify what it means to be a Fightin' Texas Aggie.”
- Cesiah Jimenez '18

The Regents’ Scholars Organization (RSO), established in the fall of 2007, provides an opportunity for Regents’ Scholars to form a close knit community at Texas A&M University. The mission of RSO is to help first generation students with their college endeavors and to serve the community with excellence and integrity. It provides a "home" organization for its members. It strives to maximize academic and social cohesion with diligence, honesty, and dedication within the community.

Members will be recipients of the Regents’ Scholarship or students interested in supporting first- generation students. The organization host monthly meetings and participates in community service projects, fundraising events, and social events.

The RSO Executive Board members are selected to one-year terms by an application and interview process. Applications for the board become available in the spring.

Regents' Scholars Organization Executive Board
Regents' Newsletters
Regents' Former Student Stories

Texas A&M Regent Students