Texas SB521 requires public higher education institutions to consider standardized test scores alongside socioeconomic factors in admissions.

Texas SB521 amends the Education Code to mandate that public higher education institutions consider standardized test scores as one factor in nonautomatic admissions decisions. The bill also requires institutions to evaluate socioeconomic indicators, including academic record, socioeconomic background, first-generation college status, bilingual proficiency, and school district financial status. The changes apply starting with the 2026 fall semester. The bill takes effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in both houses; otherwise, it takes effect September 1, 2025.

Texas SB521 requires public higher education institutions to consider standardized test scores alongside socioeconomic factors in admissions.

Texas SB521 amends the Education Code to mandate that public higher education institutions consider standardized test scores as one factor in nonautomatic admissions decisions. The bill also requires institutions to evaluate socioeconomic indicators, including academic record, socioeconomic background, first-generation college status, bilingual proficiency, and school district financial status. The changes apply starting with the 2026 fall semester. The bill takes effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in both houses; otherwise, it takes effect September 1, 2025.