Blinn Board of Trustees sets tuition and fee rates and approves FAST dual credit program for 2024-25

FAST allows eligible students to enroll in dual credit courses at no cost

April 2, 2024

The Blinn College District Board of Trustees approved new tuition and fee rates for the 2024-25 academic year during its regular meeting on Tuesday.

Trustees approved an in-district tuition rate of $64 per semester credit hour, an out-of-district rate of $123 per semester credit hour, a non-resident rate of $279 per semester credit hour, and an $80 per semester credit hour general fee. This represented a $1 increase in in-district, out-of-district, and non-resident tuition and a $3 general fee increase.

According to data from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), Blinn’s 2023-24 tuition and fee rates saved students approximately 39.4% compared to the average state university. For more information regarding residency, college costs, and the services Blinn offers students to assist them in paying for college, visit www.blinn.edu/about/affordability.html.

In other business, the Board of Trustees authorized the College to opt into a new statewide dual credit program that will waive tuition and fees for eligible students enrolled in high school dual credit courses.

Through the new Financial Aid for Swift Transfer (FAST) dual credit program, which was established as part of House Bill 8, the State of Texas will reimburse Blinn for FAST eligible students enrolled in dual-credit courses. Students are eligible for the FAST Program if they:

1. are enrolled in an eligible dual-credit course at a public school district or charter school (i.e., eligible for Foundation School Program funding); and
2. are taking a course offered through an institutional agreement, as outlined in TAC, Section 4.84, from an institution of higher education that has opted to participate in FAST; and
3. were qualified for free/reduced-price lunch in any of the four school years prior to the academic year in which they enroll in the dual credit course.

Eligible students will not pay tuition and fees for eligible dual credit courses, books, supplies, and other course materials.

“The FAST program will help us serve even more students and help them earn valuable certificates, industry-recognized credentials, and associate degrees,” said Dr. Becky McBride, Vice Chancellor for Student Services. “By waiving dual credit tuition and fees for eligible students, we can better serve our communities while addressing the goals of the state’s Building a Talent Strong Texas higher education strategic plan.”