In partnership with Lamar State College Orange (LSCO), the Gateway Program is designed to help students build core academic skills, fulfill entry conditions, and successfully transition into full degree programs. Take LSCO coursework right here on campus while immersing yourself in Bobcat life — student orgs, athletics, recreation, and support services built for your success. Meet the requirements and your place at Texas State is confirmed. Guaranteed admission. No reapplication needed.
Your Gateway to Texas State University
Experience campus life in San Marcos, access Bobcat resources, and secure guaranteed admission to Texas State through a supported program.
Welcome to the TXST Gateway Experience
Find Your Footing in the Bobcat Community
Gateway is Built For Your Story
Gateway is designed for the student who needs a supported start. With dual advising, structured coursework, and a guaranteed path to TXST, every part of this program exists to carry you from where you are to where you want to be.
Belonging
Gateway provides a supported entry to TXST.
You belong to the Bobcat community from day one, with access to campus housing, student orgs, events, Rec Center, TimelyCare, and student engagement.
Support
You won't navigate this transition alone.
Benefit from specialized progress tracking, tailored academic support, "Bobcats Bounce Back" programming, and dedicated Gateway Ambassador peer mentors.
Opportunity
Guaranteed admission upon program completion.
Every credit hour you earn through LSCO builds directly toward your Texas State bachelor's degree. Complete the year-long program with a 2.25 GPA for guaranteed full entrance to TXST.
Gateway Next Steps
Learn more about the next steps for students who've received Gateway offers.
How the Gateway Program Works:
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How does the program work?
Gateway students take a mix of Texas State and LSCO courses right here on the San Marcos campus over two semesters, fall and spring. After completing the program, students transition directly into full Texas State enrollment the following year. No reapplication. No starting over.
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What kind of courses will I take?
Your coursework covers core curriculum requirements classes like English composition, U.S. History, Government, College Algebra, Psychology, and more. Every LSCO course in the Gateway pathway is selected because it transfers directly toward your Texas State degree.
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What happens when I complete the program?
Complete your Gateway coursework over two semesters with a 2.25 GPA at both institutions and your admission to Texas State is confirmed.
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How much will I save?
Gateway students save approximately $6,600 in their first year by taking LSCO courses at community college tuition rates while still experiencing full Bobcat campus life.
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Will I have an advisor?
Yes, two of them! A dedicated LSCO Gateway Academic Advisor builds your course schedule based on your TSI scores and degree plan. Your TXST advisor coordinates alongside to make sure every credit transfers cleanly and your path to graduation stays on track.
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How do I get started?
Apply to Texas State and accept your Gateway offer through your Future Bobcat Portal. From there, your advisors support you in building a schedule, getting you registered at both institutions, and setting you up for New Student Orientation.
About Lamar State College Orange
Lamar State College Orange is a student-centered, two-year college located in Orange, Texas and a fellow member of the Texas State University System. Founded in 1969, LSCO serves more than 5,800 students across Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana with affordable, transferable coursework. In the Gateway Program, LSCO and TXST advisors work together to build your course schedule, track your academic progress, and keep you on course toward your TXST degree.
Essential Gateway Connections
Access all the portals, services, and tools designed to keep your transition smooth and supported:
Future Bobcat Portal: Track status, accept your Gateway offer, and complete requirements.
TXST NetID & Bobcat Mail Setup: Activate your official TXST email and student portal access.
Gateway Student Support: Learn about Gateway Ambassadors, peer study sessions, events, and more.
TXST One Stop: Questions regarding financial aid coordination, billing, and registration.