Texas State University: Student Review Process Explained

Texas State University is a four-year, medium full-time, selective higher education institution located in San Marcos, Texas. With an enrollment of 33,175 undergraduate students, it is one of the largest institutions in the state. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including popular majors such as psychology, business, and kinesiology. Texas State University is also known for its strong STEM program and top-rated education program. The university has a holistic review process for admissions, considering high school curriculum, admission essays, extracurricular involvement, leadership, and community service, among other factors.

Texas State University's application process

Freshman applicants, or those intending to attend Texas State University the semester after their high school graduation, are required to complete an online application through ApplyTexas or Common App. They must also pay a $75 application fee, although need-based fee waivers or deferrals are available for eligible students. Additionally, freshman applicants need to submit their high school transcripts, official college transcripts (if applicable), and SAT or ACT scores. While the submission of an application essay is optional, it is highly recommended. The priority deadline for freshman applications is December 1, with a final deadline of July 15.

Transfer applicants, on the other hand, are individuals who have earned transferable credit hours from a college or university and have been out of high school for at least one semester (excluding summer). They are also required to complete and submit an online application, pay the application fee (with need-based fee waivers available), and provide official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. If the transfer applicant has completed 15 or fewer credit hours, they must also submit their high school transcript or GED certificate. Unlike freshman applicants, transfer applicants are not required to submit an essay as part of their application. The priority deadline for transfer applications is February 15, with a final deadline of July 15.

International applicants are those coming to Texas State University from outside the United States. They are required to submit a completed application, pay a non-refundable $90 application fee, and provide official school transcripts and exam results, with certified English translations if necessary. Additionally, they must submit proof of English language proficiency and can choose to send their ACT or SAT test scores. The priority and final deadlines for international applicants vary depending on their freshman or transfer status.

Texas State University also provides information for other admission types, such as returning students, veterans, those seeking a second bachelor's degree, or non-degree-seeking students. The university is committed to supporting students throughout the application process and helping them navigate their educational journey.

Student life and extracurriculars

Texas State University (TXST) offers a rich student life and extracurricular experience, with a vibrant campus community and a wide range of activities to get involved in. The university's San Marcos Campus spans 500 acres, providing ample space for exploration and discovery. Students can take advantage of various facilities, including art galleries, maker spaces, sports fields, and a creative studio.

With over 350 student organisations, TXST ensures that every student can find their niche and pursue their interests. These organisations cover a diverse range of interests, including academic, artistic, social, and service-oriented groups. The university also promotes an active and healthy lifestyle with recreational sports, service clubs, Greek life, and faith groups. TXST's award-winning Student Rec Center and Outdoor Center @ Sewell Park offer additional opportunities for students to stay fit and explore the outdoors.

The university's location in San Marcos adds to the appeal of student life, blending small-town charm with proximity to larger cities like Austin and San Antonio. The beautiful San Marcos River running through the campus provides a serene setting for studying and relaxation. The campus is also known for its natural beauty, great music, art, food, and cultural offerings.

TXST's student body is diverse, with a total undergraduate enrollment of over 34,000 students, comprising 39.7% male and 59.3% female students. The university accommodates a mix of on-campus and off-campus living arrangements, with 21% of students residing in college-owned, -operated, or -affiliated housing, and 79% living off-campus. The campus dining options include 10 locations with diverse menus and meal plan choices.

TXST also fosters a sense of community and school pride through its athletics programme. The Bobcats compete in 16 men's and women's NCAA Division I teams, providing excitement and school spirit throughout the year. Overall, TXST offers a well-rounded student life experience that complements its strong academic programmes.

Food and dining options

Texas State University offers a variety of dining options and meal plans to cater to different preferences and needs. The university's dining services provide students with the flexibility to eat anywhere on campus without having to carry cash or a credit card. With meal plans, students can enjoy the convenience of choosing from various dining locations across the San Marcos and Round Rock campuses.

The university's dining options include a range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries located across the campuses. Some of these dining spots are open until midnight or later, providing students with the option to grab a bite even during late-night study sessions. While the wait times may vary, the food variety and quality are generally well-received by the student body.

One of the notable aspects of the dining experience at Texas State University is the availability of diverse cuisine options. Students can find a variety of menu items to suit their tastes and dietary preferences. Whether it's grabbing a quick snack between classes or sitting down for a leisurely meal with friends, the dining locations on campus offer something for everyone.

Meal plans at Texas State University are designed to provide flexibility and convenience. Students can choose from different plan options, allowing them to select the one that best suits their dining habits and budget. These meal plans can be managed through mobile apps, offering an easy and cashless way to access dining services.

In addition to the on-campus dining options, Texas State University's location in San Marcos provides easy access to nearby cities like Austin and San Antonio. Students can explore the diverse culinary scenes in these cities, offering even more choices for dining and social experiences. The vibrant food culture in the surrounding areas complements the on-campus dining options, ensuring that students have a variety of culinary adventures to discover during their time at the university.

Greek life

There are mixed reviews of Greek life at the university. Some students report that it will take over the university, while others are more moderate in their views. There are also reports of hazing within fraternities and sororities, although these are unconfirmed.

The university itself is praised for its diverse academic programs, vibrant campus life, and strong sense of community. The location in San Marcos, close to cities like Austin and San Antonio, is also highlighted as a positive feature, offering a blend of small-town charm and cultural and recreational activities.

Campus safety

Texas State University has a range of measures in place to ensure the safety of its students, staff, and visitors. The University Police Department (UPD) is committed to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of everyone on campus.

In the event of an emergency, students are advised to call 911 for an ambulance, fire, or police response. The UPD can be reached directly via non-emergency phone numbers, and there is also a 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Support line available. In addition, blue-light emergency call boxes are located across the Texas State campus, providing a direct line to the UPD when the red button is pressed.

The university also has an alert notification system, TXSTATE Alert System, which sends texts or emails to devices during emergencies, providing real-time updates and notifications when the situation is resolved. This is in addition to the Safety & Emergency Communications page on the university's website, which is updated with the latest information during emergencies.

The Texas School Safety Center (TxSSC), an official university-level research center, is tasked with key school safety initiatives and mandates. The TxSSC serves as a clearinghouse for safety and security information, providing research, training, and technical assistance to K-12 schools and junior colleges across Texas. It also works to build partnerships among various stakeholders to reduce the impact of tobacco on Texans through prevention, training, and enforcement initiatives.

The university offers additional resources for emergency preparedness, encouraging students to familiarize themselves with these resources to take control of their well-being. This includes information on state and university rules and regulations concerning firearms, as well as assistance for those who have been victims of violent crime.

Frequently asked questions