STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Beginning with the Class of 2024, Galena Park Independent School District seniors in the top 50 percent of their graduating class will earn automatic admission to Tarleton State University.

As part of its Distinguished High School Partners program, Tarleton State also will waive ACT (American College Test) or SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) requirements for students in the top half of their class and application fees for students who qualify.

Galena Park ISD and Tarleton State leaders cemented the agreement in October.

“Partnering with Galena Park ISD ensures that some of the brightest students in Texas have the opportunity for a high-quality university experience,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “This partnership aligns with our commitment to be a first-choice institution for high school seniors in Texas.”

“Galena Park ISD is committed to excellence in all, for all, by all,” said Superintendent Dr. John Moore. “This partnership with Tarleton State exemplifies our commitment to provide opportunities for all students, particularly those pursuing a college degree. We look forward to future endeavors together.”

The President’s Guaranteed Scholarship Program assures first-time-in-college students graduating in the top half of their high school class between $500 and $4,000 in scholarships. Students graduating from one of Tarleton State’s Distinguished High School Partners will receive an additional $500 or $1,000. Admitted freshmen must submit a general scholarship application to determine eligibility.

For more information about Distinguished High School Partners and the President’s Guaranteed Scholarship Program, visit https://www.tarleton.edu/admissions/dhsp and https://www.tarleton.edu/becomeatexan/guaranteedscholarship. To learn how to become a Tarleton Texan, visit www.tarleton.edu/becomeatexan/index.html.

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.