The Texas Higher Education Student Advisory Council brings together over a dozen student leaders from across the state to shape and advocate for policy solutions at the Texas Capitol that improve the experiences and outcomes of students.

About the Student Advisory Council

The Student Advisory Council (SAC) is organized and supported by Young Invincibles, EdTrust in Texas, and Breakthrough Central Texas as a joint initiative of the Texas Postsecondary Advocates Coalition for Equity (Texas PACE). Hear from previous SAC members.

We’re building a cohort that reflects the full diversity of postsecondary students in Texas —including first-generation college students, students from low-income backgrounds, transfer students, student-parents, and Texans of all backgrounds.

Why This Matters

Since launching in 2022, SAC members have helped secure significant wins for Texas students, including increased investments in need-based financial aid and passage of a new outcomes-based funding formula that rewards community colleges for student success — especially students with the greatest needs.

The 2026 cohort will continue that work as state leaders develop recommendations for performance-based funding of public four-year universities that will impact at least $500 million in public funding and nearly 700,000 Texas students. SAC members will help ensure students are at the table, shaping the design of this funding.

Apply for the Fellowship

Fellowship details (2026 cohort)

• Duration: From March 2026 to November 2026
• Compensation: $240 monthly stipend for active participation
• Programming: Virtual meetings every two weeks with training in policy, advocacy, and strategic communication
• Engagement: Access to experts and policymakers, with occasional in-person gatherings in Austin

Who Can Apply

We invite current or recently enrolled undergraduate students (age 18+) from any campus (not just the flagship) that is part of a Texas public four-year university system to apply:

• University of Texas System
• Texas A&M University System
• Texas State University System
• University of Houston System
• University of North Texas System
• Texas Tech University System
• Texas Woman’s University
• Texas Southern University

How to Apply

• Application deadline: February 6, 2026
• Apply online: Here!

Please reach out to Elias Ramirez, southern program coordinator, Young Invincibles with any questions: elias.ramirez@younginvincibles.org.

Apply for the Fellowship