Big dreams. Packed bags. A whole new chapter.
They're heading off to college. You're figuring out tuition, dorm shopping, move-in day and approximately a million other things. Here's your Texas guide to getting your student ready, your finances organized and your family prepared for what comes next.
They're ready to go.
Are you ready for move-in day?
College is a big milestone for the whole family. There are applications to finish, financial decisions to make and a surprising number of things to remember before the car is packed.
Here's your practical guide to preparing for the transition, with a little extra attention to the things Texas families should know.
Find the right fit. Then figure out the cost.
The college search isn't just about finding the perfect campus. Compare academic programs, graduation outcomes, location and the total cost of attendance.
Look beyond the sticker price.
Compare tuition, mandatory fees, housing, meal plans, textbooks and transportation. Financial aid can change the final cost.
Does your student qualify?
In-state tuition eligibility depends on Texas residency rules and the student's individual circumstances. Confirm classification with each college.
Picture the everyday.
Consider housing availability, transportation, student support, healthcare and how far the campus is from home.
What will you actually pay?
Use each school's net price calculator and compare financial aid offers rather than relying on published tuition alone.
Texas has tools to make the search easier.
My Texas Future helps families explore education and career options. ApplyTexas lets students apply to Texas public universities and many other participating schools.
EXPLORE TEXAS COLLEGE RESOURCES ↗Let's talk about paying for all this.
Before committing to a school, understand the difference between grants, scholarships, work-study and loans. Build a realistic plan for all four years, not just freshman fall.
Start with federal student aid.
Complete the FAFSA for the appropriate academic year. Dependent students usually need information from a parent contributor. Check school, state and federal deadlines.
START THE FAFSA ↗Explore state programs.
Eligible Texas students may qualify for state grants and other assistance. Students who cannot complete the FAFSA may be eligible to submit the TASFA.
TEXAS FINANCIAL AID ↗Keep looking after acceptance.
Check college-specific awards, local organizations, professional associations and scholarship renewal requirements.
Understand the commitment.
Compare federal and private loan terms, interest rates, repayment obligations and any parent borrowing responsibilities.
Build a college budget together.
Include housing, food, books, transportation, personal spending and an emergency fund. Agree on which expenses your student will manage and which ones the family will cover.
New room.
New responsibilities.
Whether it's a dorm, a shared apartment or a place off campus, the first college home comes with its own checklist.
Dorm or apartment?
Compare costs, meal plan requirements, transportation, lease terms and how long the housing agreement lasts. An off-campus apartment may require deposits, utilities and a parent guarantor.
Read the housing agreement.
Understand move-in dates, cancellation policies, guest rules, roommate arrangements and responsibility for damage.
Make a packing plan.
Check the school's permitted appliance list and room dimensions before buying furniture. Coordinate shared items with roommates to avoid bringing three microwaves.
Check the safety basics.
Locate building exits, understand campus alerts, save emergency contacts and learn how to request maintenance or report a safety concern.
Who's covering the laptop?
A parent's homeowners policy may cover some belongings in a dorm, but coverage can be limited. Off-campus renters should review their own renters insurance options.
Car keys or walking shoes?
Taking a car to college can be convenient, but parking, insurance and maintenance add to the budget. Some campuses make it easier to go without one.
Tell your insurer.
Let your insurance company know where the car will be kept and who will drive it. A change in location may affect the policy.
Driving less?
Ask whether a student-away-at-school or similar discount is available, depending on the insurer's rules.
Explore the alternatives.
Look into campus shuttles, public transit, biking, rideshare and student transportation passes.
Don't forget the extras.
Budget for parking permits, fuel, tires, routine maintenance and unexpected repairs.
Going to college outside Texas?
Review the other state's vehicle and insurance requirements, especially if your student will keep a car there for much of the year.
A little preparation goes a long way.
College often means your student will manage appointments, prescriptions and important decisions more independently. Have the practical conversations before move-in.
Check whether your student's doctors, nearby hospitals and campus healthcare providers are in network. Compare any student health plan offered by the college.
Arrange refills, locate a nearby pharmacy and confirm how medications will be managed during the semester.
Review the college's enrollment requirements, including applicable Texas meningococcal vaccination rules and exemptions.
Once your student is an adult, parents don't automatically have access to all medical information. Discuss emergency contacts and whether any authorization is appropriate.
Keep identification, insurance cards, banking details, emergency contacts and important academic records securely accessible.
What about a power of attorney?
Some families choose to discuss financial or medical authorization documents when a child turns 18. These are important legal decisions, so consult a qualified professional about whether they're appropriate.
Let them spread their wings. Keep a plan.
The first semester is an adjustment for everyone. A few conversations about money, safety and communication can make the transition easier for the whole family.
Set a realistic monthly budget.
Discuss spending limits, credit cards, part-time work and how to handle unexpected expenses.
Agree on a check-in rhythm.
Decide how you'll stay in touch without turning every missed call into an emergency.
Know where to get help.
Identify academic advising, tutoring, counseling, disability services and campus safety resources.
Make a backup plan.
Save important contact numbers, establish an emergency fund and discuss travel arrangements if plans change.
Texas weather deserves its own conversation.
Whether your student is facing Gulf Coast hurricanes, North Texas hailstorms or winter freezes, review campus emergency alerts, evacuation guidance and a basic emergency supply kit.
Oh yeah.
Insurance.
A new address, a different driving routine and a room full of electronics can all change your family's insurance needs. Before move-in day, give your coverage a quick review.
Renters insurance
Renters insurance can help protect a student's belongings against covered losses and provide personal liability coverage. Check whether the college or landlord requires it.
Homeowners insurance
Some homeowners policies extend limited personal property coverage to students living away at college. Coverage conditions and limits vary, so don't assume everything is protected.
Auto insurance
Tell your insurer whether your student is taking a car, leaving it at home or attending college in another state. Ask about available student discounts and driver eligibility.
Health insurance
Eligible children can generally remain on a parent's health insurance plan until age 26. Review the plan's provider network near campus.
Valuable electronics
Laptops, cameras and other expensive equipment may have coverage limits or special exclusions. Ask whether additional protection makes sense.
Hey Charley is independent, so we can help your family compare available coverage options as your student heads off to college.
They've got big plans.
We've got the insurance part.
Dorm room or first apartment? Car on campus or staying home? Let Charley take a look at your family's coverage before move-in day.
LET CHARLEY TAKE A LOOK →