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Texas private school vs. homeschool TEFA rules

For 2026-27, the standard approved-private-school award is $10,474. An awarded homeschool or other eligible nonpublic student receives $2,000. The payment process and family duties also differ.

Reviewed 2026-09-08 · Which Private School editorial guide · How we work

The 2026-27 amounts differ

An awarded child at an approved private school receives $10,474 in the standard case. A private-school student with a qualifying current IEP may receive up to $30,000 based on the official calculation. Homeschool and other eligible nonpublic students receive $2,000. Texas has not announced 2027-28 amounts.

  • Private school standard: $10,474
  • Private school with qualifying IEP: up to $30,000
  • Homeschool or other: $2,000
  • Future cycle: unannounced

Private school requires an approved school

A private school must apply and be approved. Texas lists recognized accreditation, two years of campus operation, a Texas location or office, and testing for participating students among its conditions. The family names the school and the school confirms enrollment. The school still controls admission.

  • Check the campus in the finder
  • Complete admissions
  • Confirm cost and aid
  • Wait for program enrollment confirmation

Texas does not approve homeschool programs

TEA says it does not regulate, index, monitor, approve, register, or accredit homeschool programs. A bona fide Texas homeschool uses a good-faith curriculum covering reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship. TEFA is separate: funded purchases must follow program rules and use approved providers or vendors when required.

  • The parent directs the course of study
  • TEA does not issue homeschool approval
  • TEFA rules govern funded purchases
  • Keep required account records

Funding timing differs

For 2026-27, private-school students receive 25% initially, 25% on October 1, 2026, and 50% on February 1, 2027, subject to program conditions. Homeschool and other students receive the full $2,000 initially. These are account funds for approved expenses, not cash for a personal account.

  • Private school: installments
  • Homeschool or other: full initial award
  • Both: approved expenses only
  • Neither: personal cash refund

Choose the setting, then test the budget

A larger school award can still leave a tuition balance. Homeschool has a smaller award and shifts instruction, curriculum, scheduling, and records to the family. Compare the actual school cost with the money and time of the homeschool plan. Check program rules before changing settings. A child cannot receive TEFA while enrolled in a Texas public or charter school for state attendance funding.

  • Private school: balance, commute, calendar, support
  • Homeschool: curriculum, teaching time, activities, services
  • Either: approved expenses and current status
  • Verify the official account before spending
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