The bill, H.B. No. 3683, amends the Education Code to expand the eligibility criteria for students to participate in the Financial Aid for Swift Transfer (FAST) program. It allows students enrolled in private schools, including home schools, to qualify for dual credit courses at no cost, provided they meet certain conditions, such as being educationally disadvantaged in the four years prior to enrollment. Additionally, it mandates that school districts, charter schools, and private schools determine and notify higher education institutions of a student's eligibility based on established criteria.

Furthermore, the bill ensures that institutions of higher education participating in the FAST program receive funding for eligible students enrolled in private schools, aligning with the tuition set by the coordinating board. The changes will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, and the bill stipulates that it may be enacted immediately if it receives the necessary legislative approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 28.0095, Education Code 61.059 (Education Code 28, Education Code 61)