Texas families seeking private school vouchers through the state’s new Education Freedom Accounts program can begin applying on February 4, 2026, as state officials prepare for strong demand and limited funding for the 2026–27 school year.
The Texas Education Agency said the program will provide state-funded accounts that eligible families may use for private school tuition and approved educational expenses. The agency said more than 300 private schools in the Houston area have received approval to participate as of the latest update.
State officials set an order of priority for applicants based on household income, disability status, and prior enrollment in public or charter schools. Children with disabilities from households earning up to 500% of the federal poverty level rank first for funding.
Children from households earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level receive the next priority, followed by children from households earning between 200% and 500% of the federal poverty level. Students from households earning above 500% of the federal poverty level fall into the final category, with priority given to those who attended a Texas public or charter school for at least 90% of the previous school year.
The state capped awards for the highest-income group at no more than 20% of total program funding. Officials said funding depends on available appropriations and that not all eligible applicants will receive an account.
The application process requires families with children already enrolled in private schools to list the school name. Each participating school must confirm enrollment as part of the state’s verification process.
Private school consulting firms in Houston reported increased interest ahead of the program’s launch. Houston School Options said private school applications in the region rose an estimated 30% to 40% last year. Consultants expect demand to grow further once applications open.
Many private schools set admissions deadlines between December and March, months before the state issues funding decisions. State officials expect families to receive award notifications in April, which coincides with enrollment confirmation and deposit deadlines at many schools.
Consultants advised families to review school contracts carefully and consider whether they can afford tuition without voucher funding. Officials and advisers said families should monitor state announcements and school communications as timelines and requirements develop.
