Texas Proposal Could Limit Automatic College Admissions for Top Students
A new bill working its way through the Texas Legislature could change the way public universities admit students who graduate at the top of their class. If passed, this law would give schools more control over their admissions process and reduce the number of guaranteed spots for high-ranking students—a shift from a rule that’s been in place for more than two decades. Here’s a simple look at what the bill says and what it could mean for students and families.
What the Bill Does
Key Info: Senate Bill 2354, introduced by Sen. Brandon Creighton, would allow Texas public universities to set a limit on the number of students they admit automatically through the Top 10% Rule. At the moment, Texas public universities must admit students who finish in the top 10% of their high school class. Meanwhile, UT Austin already follows a slightly different rule—it only guarantees admission to students in the top 6%.
What Might Change: If this bill becomes law, other universities could adopt their own limits. This change would let universities review more students through a broader process that looks at personal background, goals, and activities—not just GPA or class rank.
Supporters Want More Room to Consider the Whole Student
Key Info: People backing the bill say that class rank shouldn’t be the only factor in admissions decisions. Moreover, they argue that universities should have more freedom to consider qualities like leadership, resilience, and personal background. Sen. Creighton and others believe the current system limits how schools can evaluate a student’s full potential.
The Argument: The bill wouldn’t get rid of the Top 10% Rule. Instead, it would give each school more control over how many students they admit through that rule. As a result, universities could make room for other students who bring different perspectives and accomplishments to campus.
Critics Say It Could Make College Less Accessible
Key Info: Groups like the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) say the bill could limit opportunities for students from lower-income areas. Many of these students count on the Top 10% Rule to get into top public universities.
Why They’re Worried: Lawmakers created the rule to make sure students from every part of Texas had a fair chance at public universities. Scaling it back could take away one of the most reliable pathways students in underfunded districts have to reach a four-year university.
Conclusion
Senate Bill 2354 hasn’t passed yet, but it’s already sparked a lot of debate across Texas. Supporters say it helps schools build more balanced classes. Opponents argue it could close doors for students who’ve worked hard to get to the top. If you’re a student, parent, or educator, now’s the time to follow what happens next.
More…
- https://www.texastribune.org/2025/04/10/texas-senate-bill-37-governing-boards-faculty-senates/
- https://www.unidosus.org/publications/2154-protect-the-top-10-rule-for-texans-a-critical-law-providing-opportunities-for-students-across-texas/
- https://www.thedailytexan.com/2025/04/08/another-legislative-session-another-attack-on-higher-education/
- https://www.overherehouston.com/denver-nuggets-move-on-from-head-coach-and-gm-just-days-before-playoffs/
