Graduating seniors at Clear Creek, Clear Springs and Clear Falls high schools have a new path to a scholarship that can cover tuition, fees, housing and food for up to four years close to home.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake announced Monday, Sept. 14, that it has been approved to join the Texas Leadership Scholars Program starting with the fall 2027 cohort. The statewide, need-based program provides renewable financial support for students who demonstrate strong academics, leadership and community service.

Only 250 students across Texas are selected each year.

To qualify, seniors must graduate from an accredited Texas public high school and rank in the top 10% of their class. Students outside the top 10% can submit a recommendation letter from a principal or counselor. All applicants must show evidence of leadership and community service. They must also file a FAFSA or TASFA and be eligible for the TEXAS Grant, according to the program's eligibility page.

Applicants can rank up to three participating universities. UHCL is now one of those options, joining more than a dozen other Texas universities in the program, which was founded in 2022.

Financial support is renewable for up to eight semesters. Participating schools cover board-designated tuition and fees through a mix of federal, state and institutional aid based on financial need. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board provides additional housing and food support based on average costs at each campus. No specific dollar figure for UHCL's award package has been published.

Beyond the money, scholars get mentoring, undergraduate research opportunities, job shadowing and professional development.

"We look forward to welcoming our first scholars and helping them develop their talents, pursue their ambitions and prepare to make a difference in their professions and communities," UHCL President Richard Walker said in the university's announcement.

Eric Tack, UHCL's associate vice president for Student Success, said the program pairs financial support with mentors and leadership experiences that prepare students for life after graduation.

Students access the application through a staff member at their high school. Applications open Oct. 1, and the deadline is 11:59 p.m. Feb. 16, 2027. Once admitted, scholars must maintain full-time enrollment, a minimum 2.5 GPA and TEXAS Grant eligibility to keep the award.