Academic Fresh Start
Your old grades don’t have to count against you.
What is Academic Fresh Start?
If you’re a Texas resident applying for admission (or readmission) to a Texas public college or university as an undergraduate, Academic Fresh Start may allow you to begin a new course of study with a clear academic record.
Under current Texas law, if you have college coursework that is between 5 and 10 years old or older at the time you plan to enroll, those credits and grades may be excluded from consideration under Academic Fresh Start. This can be a helpful option for students returning to college after a time away.
Academic Fresh Start must be selected at the time you apply, and it’s an all-or-nothing option. You cannot choose which courses or grades to exclude; all eligible coursework from the applicable time period is removed from your academic record for admission and GPA purposes.
When Academic Fresh Start may make sense
Academic Fresh Start may be a good option under the following circumstances:
- Most of your older grades were low or inconsistent.
- You struggled academically in the past but feel better prepared now.
- Your earlier coursework doesn’t align with your current major or career goals.
When Academic Fresh Start may not be the best choice
Academic Fresh Start may not be ideal under the following circumstances:
- You earned strong grades you would like to keep.
- You are close to completing a degree.
- Older credits are essential prerequisites for your intended major.
An academic advisor at your chosen college can help you review your record and decide whether Academic Fresh Start is the right option for you.
Tip: This is an all-or-nothing choice. You cannot pick and choose which courses to ignore and which courses to count.
How does Academic Fresh Start affect your financial aid?
Academic Fresh Start clears only your academic record, not the number of semesters you have been in higher education or your grades for determining financial aid eligibility. For example, students can receive Pell Grants for 12 total semesters, including semesters enrolled as dual credit or community college students, no matter how long ago.
For further details, contact the Financial Aid Office at the colleges you want to attend.
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How do you use Academic Fresh Start?
Many colleges have an extra Academic Fresh Start form or agreement to send with your application for admission. Depending on how many credits can be ignored, you may need to apply as either an incoming freshman or transfer applicant. Check with the school to find out more.