Clear Lake-area high school seniors have a new scholarship path at the University of Houston-Clear Lake that could cover tuition, fees, housing and food for up to four years.

UHCL has been approved to join the Texas Leadership Scholars Program (TLS), a statewide scholarship and leadership initiative, starting with the fall 2027 cohort. Applications open Thursday, Oct. 1, and close Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. CST, according to the program's website.

The scholarship covers board-designated tuition and fees through a combination of federal, state and institutional aid based on financial need. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board also provides housing and food support based on average costs at each scholar's institution. The award is renewable for up to four years or eight semesters, provided students continue to meet program requirements.

Only 250 students statewide are selected each year. How many of those spots go to UHCL students is not specified.

To qualify, applicants must be graduating seniors from accredited Texas public high schools, file a FAFSA or TASFA, be TEXAS Grant eligible, and either rank in the top 10% of their class or obtain a recommendation letter from their principal or counselor. Students must also show evidence of leadership and service.

Applicants can rank up to three participating universities. Students access the TLS application through a staff member at their high school.

UHCL President Richard Walker said the program aligns with the university's mission. "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," Walker said in a university announcement.

Beyond financial support, scholars participate in mentoring, leadership development, undergraduate research, job shadowing and professional networking. They also join a statewide network of TLS alumni.

Eric Tack, UHCL's associate vice president for Student Success, said scholars will have access to mentors and experiences that help them build confidence and prepare for life after graduation.

The TLS program was founded in 2022 by 18 member institutions. UHCL is among the participating universities for the 2027-2028 academic year.

The announcement follows UHCL's expansion of its separate Hawk Promise program on Aug. 10, which raised the family income eligibility threshold from $65,000 to $100,000 in adjusted gross income for fall 2027 applicants. That program covers tuition and mandatory fees for qualifying students.

Once admitted to TLS, scholars must maintain TEXAS Grant eligibility, full-time enrollment, a minimum 2.5 GPA and satisfactory academic progress. Families can learn more at texasleadershipscholars.org.