H.B. No. 5333 proposes the establishment of the STEM Excellence Graduate Fellowship Program, which aims to attract and retain high-achieving students in research doctoral programs within the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The program is designed to enhance Texas' economic success by bolstering its research institutions and ensuring that the state continues to draw top talent. The bill introduces a new subchapter, Subchapter T-4, to Chapter 61 of the Education Code, which outlines the purpose, definitions, establishment, administration, eligibility criteria, and rules governing the fellowship program.

The bill specifies that the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will administer the program as a competitive grant award, providing funding to higher education institutions for fellowships. To qualify for the fellowship, students must meet several criteria, including U.S. citizenship, passing an FBI background check, and maintaining a high academic standard. The Coordinating Board is also authorized to solicit and accept grants and donations to support the program. Additionally, the board will adopt rules for the program's administration, including scholarship amounts and usage, while ensuring that students can only receive funding for a maximum of five years. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

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