Texas Education Freedom Accounts

How much in funds is available?

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) determines the amounts available. For the 2026-2027 school year, $10,474 is the amount for a participating child. Students with disabilities who have an individualized education plan (IEP) on file with their school district may receive up to $30,000.

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Who is eligible for the program?

Children are eligible to participate if they are U.S. citizens or lawfully present in the United States and are eligible to attend a Texas school district or open-enrollment charter school or Pre-K program. The parent must also be a Texas resident. 

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Priority groups are as follows:

1. Children with a disability who are members of a household whose total annual income is at or below 500% of the Federal Poverty Level.

2. Children who are members of a household whose total annual income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.

3. Children who are members of a household whose total annual income is between 200% and 500% of the Federal Poverty Level.​

4. Children who are members of a household whose total annual income is at or above 500% of the Federal Poverty Level. Children who were enrolled in a Texas public school or charter school for at least 90% of the prior school year will be prioritized within this group. Funds for children in this category may not exceed 20% of the amount of money appropriated from the program fund for that school year.

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Will every eligible child receive funds?

Not necessarily. If the applications exceed available funding, a lottery will decide placement.

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When can families apply?

Applications open on February 4, 2026 and close on March 17, 2026. For application information, please visit https://educationfreedom.texas.gov. The Comptroller has announced that Odyssey will be the certified educational assistance organization to help administer the program. Odyssey will offer an online parent portal to guide families through the application process and will allow access to funds (if approved). More information will be available soon.

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How will funds be distributed?

Quarterly transfers into Texas Education Freedom Accounts will be made on the first day of July, October, January, and April. If your child is selected, you will receive instructions to accept the award in your Odyssey portal.

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What are the requirements of parents whose children have been given Texas Education Freedom Accounts?

Applicants must provide proof of residency, proof of citizenship, and proof of income.

Parents must agree to:

• Use funds only for approved expenses;

• Keep receipts and not sell any items purchased with program money;

• Ensure annual testing (Grades 3-12);

• Report public school enrollment or graduation; and

• Follow all other TEFA rules.

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What are eligible expenses through TEFA?

• Tuition and fees at participating private schools;

• Books and materials;

• Tutoring;

• Therapies (not covered by government or private insurance);

• Meals (provided at school for a fee);

• Assessments;

• Technology (10% cap); and

• Transportation (commercial only).

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