Beginning in the 2012-13 school year, an innovative high school graduation option will be available to Texas students. This option was created by House Bill 3
(81st Legislature). Under the provisions of the statute, research universities may partner directly with Texas school districts to offer an alternative route
to a high school diploma to students who demonstrate early readiness for college.
Under this program, students who meet the placement standards of the research universities in English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and a language
other than English may be eligible to receive high school diplomas, notwithstanding any other state or local requirements. Diplomas awarded under this option will be treated as
recommended high school diplomas for other purposes, such as eligibility for enrollment in universities or for financial aid. This option may permit students to enroll in additional
courses while in high school or to enroll in college early. This high school diploma option does not guarantee admission to Texas A&M University (College Station), The University of
Texas at Austin, or to any other college or university or academic program; it does signify that students have met a rigorous standard that is aligned with the placement standards of
a leading flagship institution.
Students must attend a high school in a Texas school district that has entered into an agreement with a research university and must meet the
requirements
that demonstrate sufficient mastery in each subject area for which the state has adopted college readiness
standards and in a language other than English. Students interested in pursuing this unique opportunity should speak to their high school counselors.
Under the requirements of the statute, only students from participating school districts are eligible for the early readiness diploma option. Students interested in participating
from other school districts should contact their school district or the Early Readiness High School Graduation Option office at The University of Texas at Austin at earlyreadiness@austin.utexas.edu.
No. Students must still apply and meet admission standards in effect at the time of their application.
Interested students should view the detailed requirements. Students who are in a participating district and meet the requirements for participation can register
here.
Interested districts should download, execute, and return the District Agreement.
For any questions, please view the Frequently Asked Questions or contact the Early Readiness High School Graduation Option office at
earlyreadiness@austin.utexas.edu.