Frequently Asked Questions
This site is currently under review. If you have questions, please contact the Dean of Students at dos@txstate.edu.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
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Can non-citizen students apply to Texas State University?
Yes, a Social Security number is NOT required on the application. Just leave the field blank and complete the rest of the application.
International students with visas should contact the International Student Scholar Services (ISSS) office.
If you are a DACA student (var. – have an H4/L2/etc. visa) you should complete the U.S. application and disregard that it says it is ONLY for U.S. citizens and Permanent Residents. In some cases, ApplyTexas may require you to use the International Application. If that happens, submit it instead. We will figure it out and correct it.
If you are classified as an in-state resident for tuition purposes, you may receive state financial aid by submitting a Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA).
If you are not a resident of Texas, you can receive in-state tuition through House Bill 1403 if you fall under these qualifications:
- resided in Texas with a parent or guardian while attending high school in Texas
- graduated from a public or private high school or received a GED in Texas
- resided in Texas for the three years leading to graduation or receipt of a GED
- provided their institutions a signed affidavit indicating an intent to apply for permanent resident status as soon as able to do so
If you have questions about your residency status for tuition purposes, contact residency@txstate.edu.
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Where can I get legal assistance?
The Attorney for Students office offers free legal counseling services to all currently enrolled Texas State University students. All student information is protected by attorney-client privilege and is treated confidentially by all personnel. The Attorney for Students office is available to answer any and all questions related to U.S. immigration laws and how they may affect you. Students pursuing a legal career are also encouraged to contact AFS.
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How do I transition to grad school or the workforce?
TXST's Career Services offers robust assistance for currently enrolled students and bobcat alumni.
Immigrants Rising created a free resource available for download called Life After College: A Guide for Undocumented Students that explains the following:
- Graduate School Versus Professional School
- Deciding Which School to Attend
- Private Versus Public
- Application Process
- Paying for Graduate School and Professional School
- Types of Professional Schools
- Getting Internships
- Earning a Living…and much more!
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Can I obtain healthcare or health insurance?
Lawfully present immigrants can get Marketplace coverage and may qualify for premium tax credits and other savings on Marketplace plans.The term “lawfully present” includes immigrants who have:- “Qualified non-citizen” immigration status (see details below).
- Humanitarian statuses or circumstances (including Temporary Protected Status, Special Juvenile Status, asylum applicants, Convention Against Torture, victims of trafficking).
- Valid non-immigrant visas.
- Legal status conferred by other laws (temporary resident status, LIFE Act, Family Unity individuals). Get a full list of immigration statuses eligible for Marketplace coverage.
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What are my options for financial aid if I don't have a social security number?
Consider submitting a Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TAFSA)
1. Do the TASFA as early as possible. It opens on October 1 every year and should be completed by January 15 for the best aid. It is still not too late to apply, but you will want to hurry.
2. Answer the questions exactly as they are asked. If it asks about something today, then answer it for today; don’t try to anticipate what might happen in the future (for example: you will be getting married later, but not yet…you are not married for the TASFA).
3. Answer all of the questions! All of them. If you don’t have an answer, then put N/A as a strategy.
4. At TXST, all you need to do is submit your TASFA application. If the Office of Financial Aid needs more information, they will contact you.
Pay attention to details!
For Loans, visit the Alternative Loans page for more information. Book an appointment with a TXST financial coach to help you decide what is the best loan option for you.
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Where can I find a notary on campus?
Free notary services are provided to students at the offices of Attorney for Students 512.245.2370 and Dean of Students 512.245.2124. Always call first to make sure the notaries are available.
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LIVING IN SAN MARCOS
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San Marcos Public Library Card
The San Marcos Public Library offers an Enhanced Library Card that has a person’s name, picture, and other personal information printed on it. This may possibly be used as a supplement with other documents to prove your identity. You will need to check with organizations/entities with which you would like to use the Enhanced Library Card as part of establishing your identity to determine if/how the Enhanced Library Card can be used for this purpose.
Enhanced Library Cards are only available to residents of San Marcos or Hays County ages 18 years and older.
Enhanced cards are issued every Monday from 2-4pm on a first come, first served basis. If you cannot come during this time, please e-mail smpl@sanmarcostx.gov with your name, date of birth, and availability and someone will get back to you to schedule an appointment that meets your needs! For more information visit the San Marcos Public Library Website.
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Mano Amiga
Mano Amiga is a local nonprofit that assists non-citizens and low-income residents in the rural I-35 corridor between San Antonio and Austin.
If you need support or resources, you can call their hotline: (512)-766-6854
You can also email them at manoamigasm@gmail.com or visit their website.
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