Texas Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) Program
We do not administer or manage any programs. For help or official support, visit the state’s program website. Program information verified using official state information.
How does this program work?
The Texas Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) Program, passed in 2025, gives families greater flexibility in customizing their child’s education. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, eligible students in Texas can receive state funds to pay for approved educational expenses, including private school tuition, tutoring, therapy, curriculum, and more. There is a $1 billion for the program over the first two years.
Why this matters to families in Texas:
The Texas EFA program expands access to private school and other educational alternative options so parents can select the learning environment that best matches their child’s needs. It gives families more control over their child’s education path.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
ESA
Funding Amounts:
- General students: approx. $10,300–$10,900 (85% of public per-student funding) per year
- Students with disabilities: up to $30,000 per year
- Homeschoolers: up to $2,000 per year
Who is eligible for this program?
The Texas ESAs program is available statewide but given the $1 billion cap over the first two years of the program, there will be approximately 80,000 to 100,000 slots for student participation. The priority will be:
- Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan
- Low- to moderate-income families (≤200% the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), then up to 500% FPL, with cap on higher-income participants)
In addition, students must:
- Be U.S. citizens or lawful admitted immigrants resident in Texas
- Be enrolled or eligible to enroll in preK-12 Texas public school. This includes private school or homeschooled students
How can families use the funds?
The Texas ESAs funds must be used with approved vendors or accredited schools and can be used for a wide variety of educational expenses, including:
- Tuition and fees for approved private schools
- Textbooks, curriculum, uniforms
- Educational therapies (occupational, speech, etc.)
- Tutoring services and academic support
- Educational assessments and tests
- Technology needed for educational use capped at 10% per student (e.g., laptops)
- Dual enrollment tuition
- Unbundled classes or services from public/charter schools
- Meals (breakfast/lunch) when provided during school day
- Transportation to school
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Texas.
- Educational Status: Students entering K-12 grades enrolled or eligible to enroll in a Texas public school.
- School Requirements: Funds can be used at eligible Texas private schools accredited by the state.
- Assessment Requirements: Students in the program must complete an annual norm‑referenced assessment. Homeschoolers who participate must test as well.
- The program may have more requirements once it launches.
How do families apply?
- Since the Texas program will launch in the 2026-2027 school year, be sure to check the Texas Comptroller’s ESA Program page for updates and additional information.
Where can families learn more?
For other Texas School Choice Programs: Refer to our Texas State Summary.