Texas families can now apply for state-funded Education Freedom Accounts to help pay for private school, tutoring, or special education services.
SAN ANTONIO — Families across Texas can now apply for the state’s new Education Freedom Accounts, a long-debated program designed to help pay for private education and other learning options.
Applications opened Wednesday, February 4, after state lawmakers approved $1 billion in funding for the program—often referred to as school vouchers, following years of debate at the Capitol.
The program prioritizes low-income students and children with special needs, but officials say any eligible Texas family can apply. Awards are not first come, first served.
To qualify at a minimum, families must live in Texas, be in the country legally, and have a child eligible to enroll in a Texas public school or open-enrollment charter school.
If approved, families could receive up to $10,400 per child, or up to $30,000 for students with special needs. Families who choose to keep their child in public school may still qualify for up to $2,000 to help cover tutoring costs.
Parents applying will need Social Security numbers—or taxpayer identification numbers, for themselves and their child, along with a 2024 or 2025 tax return. Proof of Texas residency is also required, with a Texas driver’s license listed as the easiest option. Applications must be submitted through the Odyssey online portal.
State officials note that not all private schools in Texas have opted into the program, meaning availability may vary by area.
With applications now open, some school districts are watching closely. In a statement, Northside Independent School District said it remains focused on its mission.
“While we are still not certain of the long-term impact of education freedom accounts, Northside ISD’s mission remains unchanged: delivering a premier educational experience,” the district said.
The Education Freedom Accounts program is expected to continue generating discussion as families begin applying and funds are distributed statewide.
For more information, visit the Texas Education Freedom Accounts website.