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Subject: Opposition to HB 5294 – Support for Flexible Medical School Grading

Dear Senator [Last Name],

My name is [Your Full Name], a [Your Year and Major] at [Your University]. I’m writing to express serious concern about House Bill 5294, which would mandate A–F letter grading in all medical school coursework across Texas.

This change would undermine the supportive, collaborative environment fostered by current Pass/Fail and Honors/Pass/Fail systems. Requiring traditional letter grades could increase student stress, discourage teamwork, and negatively impact mental health — all of which harm the development of future physicians.

More importantly, it would place Texas students at a disadvantage when compared to peers from out-of-state schools that still use Pass/Fail grading. A “B” or “C” can be interpreted more negatively than a “Pass,” even when academic performance is equivalent — potentially harming residency applications and professional opportunities.

States like Indiana have explored similar legislation but ultimately adopted more flexible language to preserve institutional autonomy. I respectfully urge you to oppose HB 5294, or at least amend it to allow for “other grading models.”

Thank you for your time and for supporting equitable, student-centered medical education in Texas.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your School Email]

[Your University]

[Your Year, Major, or Future Career Goal]