Houston Daily

The University of Houston has become the first public higher education institution in Texas to implement a significant revision to the state's Academic Fresh Start law. This change is expected to benefit many Texans who have some college credit but no degree, by increasing enrollment and strengthening the workforce and economy.

The revised law allows students to waive grades and credits that are five years old or more, making it easier for them to pursue a degree. Students must apply the waiver at the time of admission, and all eligible coursework older than five years will be excluded.

Diane Z. Chase, UH senior vice president for academic affairs and provost, stated: “Academic Fresh Start perfectly aligns with the University of Houston’s mission to support student success and it also allows the University to broaden its reach and welcome even more Cougars who are determined to complete their degrees.”

Senate Bill 365 was introduced following a student's complaint about being unable to transfer due to poor grades from eight years ago. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board reports that approximately 5.4 million Texans aged 25 and older have some college credit but no degree.

State Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, a co-sponsor of the bill, expressed her excitement: “I’m thrilled the University of Houston is leading the way on college access for Texans with the adoption of the new Academic Fresh Start policy we passed this session.”

Students opting for Academic Fresh Start will not receive any credit for courses taken over five years ago, and they cannot selectively choose which credits and grades to waive.