Understanding Texas
Education Freedom Accounts
Empowering Texas families with educational choice and funding flexibility.
What is TEFA?
Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) is a state-funded program designed to give Texas families greater control over their children's education. Through TEFA, eligible families receive state-provided funds that can be used for a wide range of approved educational expenses.
The program recognizes that every child learns differently and that families are best positioned to make educational decisions for their children. TEFA provides the financial flexibility to choose educational options that align with each child's unique needs and learning style.
Whether your child has special learning needs, would benefit from private school instruction, or requires specialized tutoring and support services, TEFA can help make these options accessible.
Maximum funding for special education
Standard funding for private school
Eligible to apply regardless of income
How the Priority System Works
TEFA uses a priority band system to ensure fair distribution of funds when demand exceeds available funding.
Students with IEP or 504 plans, regardless of family income. First approval group.
Lower-income families without special needs. Second approval group.
Middle-income families. May qualify based on funding availability.
Higher-income families. Approval depends on remaining funding.
What Can You Use TEFA Funds For?
Private School Tuition
Cover tuition and fees at participating private schools across Texas.
Tutoring Services
One-on-one or small group tutoring to support your child's learning.
Special Education Services
Therapy, specialized instruction, and support for students with disabilities.
Educational Materials
Curriculum, textbooks, software, and learning tools.
Online Learning Programs
Virtual courses, educational subscriptions, and digital learning platforms.
Testing & Assessment
Standardized tests, college entrance exams, and educational evaluations.
Important Dates for 2026
Application Period
Mark your calendars for these critical dates
Applications begin accepting for the 2026-2027 school year
Final day to submit your TEFA application
Decisions start rolling out in early April. Funds become available July 1st. Starting early gives you more time to prepare documents and reduces stress. Applications submitted within the window are treated equally within each priority band, but preparing ahead ensures you won't miss the deadline.:
About This Qualification Tool
This free qualification tool is provided by School Path to help Texas families easily understand their TEFA eligibility. We created this tool because navigating education funding programs can be confusing and time-consuming.
Our mission is to make school choice accessible to every Texas family by providing clear, accurate information and simple-to-use tools. Whether you're exploring TEFA for the first time or preparing to apply, we're here to help you every step of the way.