Frequently
Asked Questions
To learn more about the T3 Partnership, check out the full FAQ resources below. Have a question that is not listed? Email info@T3partnership.org to inquire. We’re here to help.
What is the Tarrant & To Through Partnership?
The Tarrant To & Through (T3) Partnership is an organization that launched in Fall 2020. We are dedicated to improving student outcomes in 3 primary areas: 1) Graduating more students from high school who are College, Career, and Military Ready (CCMR); 2) Helping more students enroll in a postsecondary pathway with confidence; 3) Empowering more students to persist and earn a degree or credential and enter the workforce prepared for a successful career.
What are the key components of the program?
Students who take the T3 Pledge and meet scholarship eligibility and deadlines have access to a "last dollar" tuition-only scholarships in partnership with Tarrant County College, Tarleton State University, Texas Christian University, Texas Wesleyan University, Texas Woman's University, The University of Texas at Arlington, the University of North Texas (Denton), and the University of North Texas at Dallas. See full list of program components by visiting the High School Students page page for specific information.
What does “postsecondary” mean?
Postsecondary means any education after high school.
How can businesses get involved?
There are a number of ways for businesses to participate including signing the T3 Business Pledge. Learn more on the Become a Partner page.
Who is eligible to participate in the T3 Partnership?
The T3 Partnership has launched in all Fort Worth ISD, Crowley ISD, Castleberry, and Lamar High School in AISD with the plan of expanding in the future. All students, freshman through senior, can benefit from the T3 program; however, the T3 Partnership Pledge is only available to juniors and seniors.
Is there a high school GPA requirement for students to participate?
No. There is not a high school GPA requirement to participate in the T3 Partnership. However, in college, you must maintain a certain GPA to remain eligible for T3 associated scholarships. You will learn more from the institution you decide to enroll.
I don't live in Tarrant County but I do attend a participating high school. Am I still eligible?
Yes. If you are currently enrolled in a Fort Worth ISD, Crowley ISD High, Castleberry, and Arlington ISD (Lamar Only), you are eligible to participate in the T3 Partnership.
My high school is not on the list. Can I participate in the program?
If you are not currently enrolled in Fort Worth ISD, Crowley ISD, Castleberry ISD, or Arlington ISD (Lamar Only), you are not eligible for the T3 Partnership at this time.
Can I take time off after high school and enroll in a T3 partner college or university later and still be eligible?
To remain eligible for the T3 Partnership (specifically T3 scholarships and program support in college), you must enroll and attend a T3 partner institution the fall semester immediately following high school graduation. If you take a gap semester or year, you will no longer be eligible to participate in the T3 Program.
What does the T3 Partnership Pledge mean for students?
By taking the T3 Pledge as a junior or senior in high school, you are committing to 1) Graduating from high school; 2) Completing your financial aid paperwork (FAFSA/TASFA & verification documents if applicable); and 3) Completing the admissions process to a T3 partner college or university. For students who take the Pledge and enroll at a T3 partner college/ university, you will be eligible for program supports.
Taking the T3 Pledge, this does not commit you to attending a T3 partner college or university.
What kind of scholarships would I be eligible for if I took the T3 Partnership Pledge?
T3 offers a last dollar tuition-only scholarship to all partner institutions and first dollar scholarships to partner 4-year universities. Student eligibility is based on your family's household income.
There are specific deadlines and requirements for the T3 last dollar tuition-only scholarship at each partner institution. Learn more by visiting our partner college/university pages.
If I sign the T3 Partnership Pledge, am I required to attend TCC or a T3 partner university?
By completing the Partnership Pledge, this does not commit you to attending a T3 partner college or university. We know you have choices. We're here to help you along the way.
Is there a separate application process to receive a T3 scholarship?
No. When students apply to a T3 partner college or university by the required deadline, they are automatically considered for program scholarships. However, students must successfully meet all necessary eligibility requirements to be awarded T3 Scholarship funds.
Do T3 scholarships make college completely free?
No. Even with T3 scholarships (last dollar and/or first dollar), students will incur other expenses such as fees, books, housing, etc. unless otherwise communicated by your college/university.
Is there a limit on the number of students that can receive T3 scholarships?
No. If the student is enrolled in Fort Worth ISD, Crowley ISD, Castleberry ISD, or Arlington ISD (Lamar Only) and successfully meets all necessary eligibility requirements, there is not a cap in the number of T3 Scholars who can receive scholarship benefits. Students do however need to complete the T3 Partnership Pledge their junior or senior year of high school to be considered.
There are specific deadlines and income requirements for both the T3 first dollar scholarship and the T3 last dollar tuition-only scholarship. Learn more on the scholarships page.
What is a T3 “last dollar” scholarship?
Effective Fall 2022, eligible students will receive a “last dollar” tuition-only scholarship to all T3 partner colleges/universities (for which they are accepted) for up to 8 semesters or the completion of a certificate or degree. This scholarship will cover any remaining tuition costs after all Pell grants and/or other federal, state, or institutional aid have been applied. In other words, the last dollar scholarship covers the gap -- any remaining funds needed to cover the student's tuition. Housing, books, and other fees are not included.
There are specific deadlines and income requirements for T3 last dollar scholarships. Learn more on the scholarships page.
What is a T3 “first dollar” scholarship?
Effective Fall 2022, eligible students will receive a "first dollar" scholarship to all T3 4-year partner colleges/universities (for which they are accepted) for up to 8 semesters or the completion of a certificate or degree. Students will receive a direst disbursement of $500 per year ($250 at the start of Fall & Spring) to be used for any academic or emergency related expenses. This scholarship is applied before any other financial aid is applied (deposited in your personal bank account unless otherwise communicated) and does not change even if the student receives other state, federal, or institutional aid.
There are specific eligibility and income requirements for T3 first dollar scholarships. Learn more on the scholarships page.
Can students be eligible to receive both the T3 "first dollar" AND the T3 "last dollar" scholarships?
Yes! Scholars who successfully meet all necessary eligibility requirements for both the T3 "first dollar" and the T3 "last dollar" scholarship can be awarded both funds.
If I am not eligible to receive T3 scholarship dollars, am I still considered a T3 Scholar?
Yes, absolutely! There are other program benefits you can take advantage of without being the recipient of a first and/or last dollar scholarship. Learn more by visiting this page.
Are non-citizen students eligible for T3 scholarships and support?
Both FAFSA and TASFA students who meet eligibility requirements are considered for T3 scholarships. For all students (who complete the FAFSA or TASFA), no matter their family income, they are eligible for other benefits such as mentorship and persistence coaching.
For most non-citizens, these students should complete the TASFA application to be considered for State and Institutional Aid Programs. The application cover page has instructions and information about the aid that is available. It also explains that non-citizens cannot qualify for federal aid, but they may qualify for State and institutional aid. Non-citizens can also apply for scholarships that do not have a citizenship requirement.
I want to attend TCC but enroll in a workforce program (i.e., police, fire, construction). If I am eligible, can I still receive a T3 last dollar scholarship?
Yes. T3's last dollar tuition-free scholarships and supports will cover any eligible students pursuing workforce programs (i.e., police, fire, vocational nursing, cyber security, construction). TCC will notify you if you are eligible based on your financial aid paperwork.
What institutions are considered T3 partner colleges and universities?
Effective Fall 2022, there are 8 partner colleges and universities including Tarrant County College, Tarleton State University, Texas Christian University, Texas Wesleyan University, Texas Woman's University, The University of Texas at Arlington, the University of North Texas (Denton), and the University of North Texas at Dallas.
What benefits and supports do T3 Scholars receive when attending a partner institution?
All T3 Scholars attending a T3 partner institution beginning in Fall 2021 will receive bridge programming the summer before their first semester, persistence coaching and resources to ensure they stay on track, T3 scholarship funding for eligible students, and transfer student support should they choose to attend Tarrant County College and then transfer to a partner university.
For fast facts and more information about admissions, scholarship opportunities, and eligibility, click the respective school logo on the partner page. Many application fees have been waived or are not required.
I'm attending a T3 partner institution, am I required to complete the T3 Scholar Onboarding Program?
Yes! As a T3 Scholar, you are required to complete the T3 Scholar Onboarding Program before your first semester to remain eligible for program supports and scholarships. These opportunities and timing may vary depending on what high school or partner college/university you attend.
All T3 Scholars, no matter what partner school you are enrolled in, will also have access to resources and support via "T3 Connect", a platform you will learn more about during T3 JumpStart.
What does "persistence coaching" mean and how will it benefit me?
Throughout your time in college, you will have access to specialized on-campus support and resources to help you persist and complete your credential or degree. Persistence coaching models will vary by each T3 partner college/university. As a T3 Scholar, we want to be sure you always have a point-of-contact when you have questions + need support.
Not sure where to go or with whom to connect with? We're always here for you. Simply email support@T3partnership.org and our College & Career Success team will be in touch.
What is the TSIA?
The Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA) determines a student’s readiness for college-level coursework in the general areas of reading, writing, and mathematics. Students must receive passing scores (or be exempt from taking the TSIA) in the general areas before they are able to register for college-level classes.
NOTE: It is very important you complete the necessary TSIA requirements for your college of choice (if applicable). See later question in this section of the FAQ to learn more.
How do I meet TSIA requirements?
T3 Scholars can meet TSIA requirements in various ways:
Texas Success Initiative Assessment passing scores as set by the State:
- Mathematics – minimum score of 350
- Reading – minimum score of 351
- Writing Score – a score of 5 on the essay
SAT
- A minimum score of 480 on the Evidenced-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) test shall be exempt for both reading and writing sections of the TSI Assessment.
- A minimum score of 530 on the mathematics test shall be exempt for the mathematics section of the TSI Assessment.
ACT
Composite score of 23 with a minimum of 19 on the English test shall be exempt for both the reading and writing sections of the TSI Assessment, and/or a 19 on the mathematics test shall be exempt for the mathematics section of the TSI Assessment.
Degree Attainment
A student who has graduated with an associate or baccalaureate degree from an institution of higher education.
College Preparatory Courses
Upon successful completion of a College Preparatory course, the student may enter entry-level college credit-bearing courses in the corresponding content at the partnering institution without remediation and without having to satisfy TSI requirements in the content area. This exemption to TSI exists for a period of one year after the student graduates from high school.
Texas College Bridge
Texas College Bridge is a user-friendly platform that provides individualized support to help 11th and 12th grade students strengthen their math and English skills prior to enrolling in college. Students can earn a TSI exemption at participating higher education institutions.
Where do I find my TSIA status?
If you are a high school senior and have questions related to your TSI status, you should connect with your college and career adviser or guidance counselor at your high school.
If you have already graduated from high school and have applied to a college/university, you may view your TSI status by logging into their student accounts at their respective institution.
I've already been admitted to a T3 partner college or university, where do I take the TSIA?
Some T3 partner institutions, as listed below, have their own processes that students must follow once admitted and it is determined that they need to take the TSIA. The links below provide more in-depth information on meeting TSIA requirements, registering for the exam, and more. Students can take the exams in person with the respective institution or register for a virtual option that can be requested directly through the partner institution.
- TCC
- Tarleton
- Texas Woman's
- UTA
- UNT (Denton)
- UNT Dallas
- Texas Wesleyan
- TCU (TSIA is not required)
What steps do I need to take to support my child in completing the T3 Partnership Pledge?
Check out the full list of dates and deadlines.
I have more than one child graduating this academic year, is there a cap on T3 Partnership scholarships for households?
No. There is no cap to the number of students for the T3 Partnership or program benefits per family. See eligibility requirements in above FAQ section to learn more.
How does T3 protect student data?
The T3 Partnership (T3) has strict guidelines regarding the protection of organizational and student data, which includes the following:
1. Data shall be subject to various safeguards to ensure all data is processed securely. T3 works hard to ensure data is encrypted when in transit and storage, and access to this data is subject to confidentiality commitments.
2. T3 will take all steps reasonably necessary to ensure that data is treated securely and in accordance with our internal guidelines and industry best practices. T3 has controls and procedures, and security features to prevent unauthorized access and when possible, encryption is used—and access to data within the organization is limited on a need-to-know basis (privileged access).
3. T3 will ensure that personal data is retained only for as long as necessary in accordance with T3’s mission and applicable laws. We may be required to retain certain data to satisfy legal or contractual obligations, or to establish, exercise or defend legal claims. When this data is no longer necessary for these purposes, the data will be securely deleted.
4. T3 supports compliance with industry regulations and best practices, including but not limited to The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
5. T3 has deployed and regularly maintains a data backup process that is comprehensive, efficient, and includes full backups daily of its information systems for ultimately ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational and student data.
How does a student opt out of the T3 data sharing agreement?
If you wish to opt out of data sharing once you have taken the T3 Partnership Pledge, please email support@T3partnership.org with your request.