Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA)

Understanding Education Freedom in Texas

The Goal

The Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program is a state-authorized education savings account (ESA) initiative created by the Texas Legislature under Senate Bill 2, signed into law on May 3, 2025. It gives families more choice in how they use public education funds for their children’s learning.

The program redirects state education funding into personal Education Freedom Accounts for eligible students. Parents may use the funds for qualified education expenses, such as:

Private school tuition and required fees
Textbooks and instructional materials
Curriculum and supplemental learning resources
Educational technology and devices
Tutoring services
Testing and assessment fees
Therapeutic services for students with special needs

Who Qualifies

TEFA is available to Pre-K to 12 students in Texas attending accredited private schools. Funds are distributed through a needs-based lottery system with a $1 billion budget for the first year. Awards are prioritized across four tiers:

Grade Level

Open to students in Pre-K through 12th grade enrolled at an accredited Texas private school.

Residency

Families must be Texas residents. No school district or zip code restrictions apply.

Priority Consideration

Children in foster care, children with disabilities, and families with the greatest financial need are given first consideration.

All Families Welcome

After priority groups are served, remaining funds are available to any eligible Texas family. Every application strengthens the case for expanded future funding.

Important:
Once a student is awarded a TEFA, they do not need to reapply each year as long as they remain enrolled in an accredited private school. The more families who apply, the more demand is demonstrated to the Texas Comptroller, which may lead the Legislature to increase future funding.

How to Apply for TEFA

The application process is managed through the Texas Comptroller’s office. Here’s what to expect:

Check Eligibility

Confirm your student is Pre-K to 12 eligible in Texas

Apply Online

Submit application through the Texas Comptroller (Jan-Mar 2026)

Receive Award

Awards distributed via needs-based lottery by priority tier

Enroll at KRK

Enroll your child at an accredited Kids ‘R’ Kids in Texas

Funds Applied

ESA funds deposited and applied toward tuition

Tip: Apply even if you’re unsure you’ll be selected in the first year. A strong waitlist signals demand and may lead to expanded future funding.

How TEFA Works at Kids ‘R’ Kids

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academies in Texas are positioned to accept TEFA Education Savings Account funds for qualifying programs. Here’s how it applies to your family:

Pre-K Program

Our Pre-K curriculum prepares children ages 4-5 with school-readiness skills through our exclusive STEAM Ahead and Brain Development programs.

TEFA Eligible

Kindergarten Program

Full-day Kindergarten with an advanced curriculum that builds on our early learning foundation, preparing students for elementary success.

TEFA Eligible

Before & After School

School-age programs for children up to 12, with homework support, enrichment activities, and a safe environment before and after school hours.

TEFA Eligible

Qualified Expenses TEFA Can Cover

Private school tuition & fees

Textbooks & instructional materials

Curriculum & learning resources

Educational technology & devices

Tutoring services

Testing & assessment fees

Contact your local Texas Kids ‘R’ Kids academy to confirm TEFA registration status and learn how ESA funds can be applied toward your child’s enrollment.

Frequently Asked Questions

TEFA funds can be used for a range of qualified education expenses including private school tuition and fees, textbooks and instructional materials, curriculum and supplemental learning resources, educational technology and devices, tutoring services, testing fees, and therapeutic services for students with special needs. Families should check the Texas Comptroller’s guidelines for the complete list of approved expenses.

TEFA is available to K-12 students in Texas. Funds are distributed through a needs-based lottery system with four priority tiers: (1) children in foster care or with disabilities, (2) low-income households, (3) moderate-income households, and (4) all other eligible families depending on remaining funds. Once a student is awarded a TEFA, they do not need to reapply each year as long as they remain enrolled in an accredited private school.

Learn more About TEFA

Learn more about the Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA) and how it may support your child’s educational journey. Visit the official TEFA website and explore additional resources below for detailed information, helpful guides, and the latest updates.

Helpful Resources

Texas Education Freedom Accounts Program – Oddyssey

How to Claim Your TEFA School Account and Complete Your Registration

How to Check if your School’s Registration is Complete for the TEFA Program

Visit TEFA Website

Ready to Learn More?

Visit a Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy in Texas to discuss how TEFA can support your child’s education. Our team can walk you through the enrollment process and answer your questions.

Schedule a Tour Today