HACU accepting applications for the 2026 ¡Lánzate!/Take Off! Higher Education Travel Award Program for college students

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has announced applications for 2026 ¡Lánzate!/Take Off! Higher Education Travel Award Program are now open. This signature program administered by HACU awards Southwest Airlines Flight E-Passes to students pursuing higher education (undergraduate and graduate) with limited financial resources to stay connected to home and school.

This program helps make higher education more accessible by supporting college students with the greatest need to stay connected to home and school. Eligibility requirements include enrollment at a college/university located at least 200 miles from a student's home and the submission of required essays. Awards are made based on demonstrated financial need, distance from home, educational barriers, and the potential impact of travel support on a student's academic and professional success.

A selection committee of national education advocates and community leaders will select recipients to be awarded eight (8) one-way Southwest Airlines Flight E-Passes, equivalent to four roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines. Online applications will be accepted through June 16, 2026. For additional information on eligibility and to apply, click here.