Over 6,000 migrant students have enrolled in courses since the UT Migrant Student Program began in 1987. The program won the 1996 Significant Achievement in Independent Study Award from the National University Continuing Education Association and the 1996 Distinguished Credit Program Award by the Region VII Association for Continuing Higher Education. Migrant students often achieve success despite the hardships caused by their work. Many move frequently, leaving their Texas school early and returning late every school year.
Some students begin migrating at an early age.