Digital Learning Opportunities for Educators
On September 8, we hosted a session showcasing the latest updates and features to the ApplyTexas Applicant Portal and Counselor Suite. Christy Manouelian, Program Manager of the ApplyTexas Applicant Portal, highlighted updates to the school search experience, which include only displaying schools that offer the student’s application type. Cintia Morales, Program Manager of the ApplyTexas Counselor Suite, copresented with Evelyn Denson, Product Manager of ApplyTexas, on new Counselor Suite updates that provide streamlined tools and important data to counselors.
Students can use the same email and password to sign in to both ApplyTexas and My Texas Future. If a student already has a My Texas Future account, they can reset their password on either platform. Once their accounts are synced, their corresponding Core Questions in ApplyTexas will automatically populate. The ApplyTexas Applicant Portal’s updates have also streamlined the school search experience. Search results now show schools rather than specific applications and semesters, and a school only appears if it offers the student’s selected application type. In addition, the Applicant Portal has completed readiness efforts ahead of Free College Application Week. These efforts are designed to support reliable performance during periods of increased demand and improve applicant information accuracy through enhanced validation; this ensures a more stable, accessible, and user-friendly application experience.
ApplyTexas Counselor Suite Updates
There are new features coming to the ApplyTexas Counselor Suite during fall of 2026. These updates will provide transparency to counselors about the enrollment process from start to finish as students consider Direct Admissions options, begin applications, monitor deadlines, and submit financial aid applications. The features will also allow counselors to track students’ fulfillment of graduation requirements that support postsecondary success. The new features will also streamline daily counselor tasks and responsibilities, so they can more easily identify students who need intervention. Check out the image below for an in-depth look at the upcoming updates and their rollout timeline.
ApplyTexas Webinar Series
Get ready to make the most of the enhanced ApplyTexas Counselor Suite features. The THECB has introduced updates to the Student Details feature to help you easily manage student rosters and monitor application progress. In our webinar series, we'll provide an overview of the ApplyTexas system and share guidance for using the new tools to support students throughout the application process. Review the accompanying one-page flyer for an overview of the series and registration details.
Direct Admissions Graduation Requirement
Beginning with students enrolled during the 2026–2027 school year, seniors must satisfy the new Direct Admissions requirement to graduate. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has published additional information, as well as the opt-out form. School superintendents and administrators received information about this requirement through the Updates to High School Graduation Requirements memo on August 20, 2026. To view the opt-out form, visit the TEA's Foundation High School Program page.
Professional Learning Series
If you missed it, you can view a recording of the Navigating ApplyTexas Tools for Students and Counselors webinar. We also had a session on September 15 focused on Free College Application Week. During the session, we shared best practices for promoting participation, discussed frequently asked questions, and highlighted resources to help educators prepare their students. Watch the recording of the Get Ready for Free College Application Week 2026 webinar to explore practical tips and strategies you can use to support your students and families.
