Spring ISD has announced a new partnership with Houston Christian University (HCU) to offer guaranteed college admission for qualifying high school students, opening a direct path to higher education for hundreds across the district.
The multi-year agreement, effective through 2028, establishes the Guaranteed Admission Program (GAP), which enables eligible Spring ISD juniors and seniors to receive automatic admission to HCU, along with guaranteed merit-based scholarships.
“This partnership represents a powerful step forward in expanding access to higher education for our students,” said Spring ISD Interim Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar. “By removing barriers and streamlining the path to college, we’re turning aspirations into achievable goals and building a stronger future for our families and community.”
Students who meet the following criteria will qualify for the program: A minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (through junior year), Successful completion of three years of math, on track for state graduation requirements, Completion of a simplified onboarding form and official transcript submission, No standardized test scores or formal college application are required to participate.
Additionally, students pursuing majors in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Cyber Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Information Systems, or Mathematics may be considered for the prestigious Grace Hopper Scholarship, which covers up to full tuition.
Under the agreement, Spring ISD and HCU will collaborate to support students through the admission process, maintain secure data-sharing protocols, and host joint outreach activities to raise awareness among families and campuses.
The initiative is part of HCU’s broader effort to expand college access through direct partnerships with Texas school districts. According to data provided by the university, all GAP participants are also guaranteed a merit scholarship, with award amounts scaled by GPA.
As the program rolls out districtwide, Spring ISD students and families will receive detailed guidance from campus counselors and college readiness teams on how to take full advantage of the opportunity.
“We’re always looking for innovative ways to create meaningful postsecondary pathways,” said Matthew Pariseau, Spring ISD Chief of Innovation. “Through this partnership with HCU, we’re not just increasing college access, we’re removing barriers and creating momentum for student success after graduation.”
To learn more about Houston Christian University’s Guaranteed Admission Program (GAP), review eligibility requirements, and to apply, please visit HC.edu/GAP or contact your school counselor.