Things To Check Off Your List Before Graduating High School 

Bacterial meningitis is an infection that occurs when bacteria invades the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The infection can spread easily through the transfer of respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing or close contact with an infected person. The most common symptoms can include headaches, high fever, stiff neck and a rash on the skin. These symptoms are often mistaken for the common cold.  

Although highly contagious, bacterial meningitis is a preventable infection. Getting vaccinated not only prevents the infection but it reduces severity and protects high-risk groups. 

Gloved hand extracting medicine from vile with needle.

The state of Texas requires all students entering an institution of higher education (public and private) to either receive a vaccination against bacterial meningitis or meet certain criteria for declining such a vaccination at least two weeks prior to the first day of the semester.

Once a student is admitted, they will use their Tarleton State email address to register for Med+Proctor. Students may also register through their myGateway portal!

 The Office of Undergraduate Admissions at Tarleton State will only accept vaccination records via Med+Proctor unless a student has an affidavit for exemption.  

A student may only be deemed exempt if they are 22 or older on the first day of the semester, are enrolled in an online degree program, if they are unable to receive the vaccine because it would be injurious to their health or if they decline due to religious beliefs. 

Exemption information must be submitted by mail, hand delivery or at Texan Orientation. 

Getting vaccinated is a simple step to protect your health and the health of those around you. 

For more information about how to submit your bacterial meningitis records, reach out to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions via email (admissions@tarleton.edu) or phone (254-968-9125). 



The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a college readiness assessment designed to evaluate incoming students’ reading, writing, and mathematical skills. 

Female student taking a study break outside of the engineering building.

All students, including out-of-state and international students, are required to take the TSI if they plan to attend a public university in Texas.

The requirement can be satisfied in a number of ways including taking the TSI test, completing the Texas College Bridge Program, submitting your SAT/ACT/STAAR results, taking the AP or CLEP exam, completing entry-level college courses or being an active duty member of the military. 

The TSI assessment is designed to evaluate a student’s college readiness and place them in the appropriate courses that align with their skills and academic needs. For more information about the TSI assessment, visit https://www.tarleton.edu/admissions/tsi/