Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA)
Info Session: January 21st, 2026
Virtually — 12-1 p.m. Join here!
In-person — 5:30-6:30 p.m. RSVP now!
What is the texas education freedom account (TEFA)?
A new state program that provides money to help pay for private school tuition and fees, like at Yellowstone’s lower school. (Yellowstone’s 6th-12th grade is a tuition-free public charter school and currently ineligible for funding, but we’re still encouraging you to apply so you’re covered for future opportunities.)
who qualifies?
Children are eligible if they are U.S. citizens and reside in Texas. The parent must be a Texas resident. If funding is limited, priority will be given to students with disabilities and low-income families. Funds can be used for private school tuition, like at Yellowstone School’s PreK3 - 5th grade program.
Why this program matters for yellowstone Schools
Yellowstone works hard to make our high-quality, faith-filled education accessible to all families—asking families to pay little or nothing. But it costs $18,862.47 each year to educate one Yellowstone student.
We raise 100% of the cost of tuition for lower school students and the gap between public funding and actual costs for upper school. That model isn’t sustainable forever. That’s why we’re asking all Yellowstone families—lower and upper* alike—to apply for the new Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program. *Note: only lower school students currently qualify for TEFA funds, but all families are encouraged to apply to be ready for future opportunities as this new program evolves.
Families could receive $10,474 per child per year to support tuition.
These funds will strengthen our ability to provide an excellent education for your child and keep Yellowstone affordable for future generations.
We’ll guide you through every step. And, we’re still committed to making sure cost never stands in the way of your child’s place at Yellowstone.
What this means for you
Most families we serve will qualify for $10,474 in tuition assistance through the new Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program. All lower school families will be required to apply as part of the admissions process, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Registration is February 4th to March 17th.
Also, if you apply for TEFA, receive funding, and allocate the total to Yellowstone, you will continue to pay little to nothing out of pocket for your student. All Yellowstone families will continue to receive some form of financial assistance.
Will every eligible child who applies be approved?
Not necessarily. If applications exceed available funding, a lottery will decide placement.
State law sets this priority order:
- Siblings of children already in the program (after the first round of selections).
- Children with a disability who are members of a household with income below 500% of the federal poverty level (FPL). See the chart below.
- Children from households under 200% FPL.
- Children from households between 200% to 500% percent FPL.
- Children from households above 500% FPL, prioritized by children who were enrolled in a Texas public school district.
If, during an application period, there are more acceptable applications for admission than available positions, a waitlist will be established based on the priority categories listed. This is why it is imperative that all Yellowstone families apply as soon as possible.
Household Number | Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) yearly income | 200% of FPG yearly income | 500% of FPG yearly income |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | $15,650 | $31,300 | $78,250 |
2 | $21,150 | $42,300 | $105,750 |
3 | $26,650 | $53,300 | $133,250 |
4 | $32,150 | $64,300 | $160,750 |
5 | $37,650 | $75,300 | $188,250 |
6 | $43,150 | $86,300 | $215,750 |
Key Dates and deadlines
- The TEFA Family Application Window begins February 4th and ends March 17th.
- Funding notifications start the week of April 6th. Some families may be notified later.
- You will need to log back in to confirm acceptance of the award and attendance at Yellowstone by June 20th.
Documents to Prepare for February 4th registration
The TEFA application will require families to verify identity and eligibility. Please begin gathering these items now so you’re ready on February 4th. Common items families should expect to provide:
- Parent/guardian SSN
- Child’s SSN
- Tax Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, for 2024 or 2025
- Proof of residency (Texas Driver’s license number, state ID number, utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, voter registration)
- If your child’s SSN can’t be verified: birth certificate
- Visit this link to view the complete list of items.
If applicable (for prioritization / special circumstances):
- Special education documentation (ex: IEP or required verification forms), submitted before the deadline when applicable
Note: The state portal will specify the exact acceptable documents. Our team will help you confirm what to upload once the application opens.
Who is eligible to apply on behalf of a child?
The child's parent can submit an application. A parent means a Texas resident who is a natural or adoptive parent, managing or possessory conservator, legal guardian, custodian, or other person with legal authority to act on behalf of a child.
Where can I get more information?
Visit the site by clicking on the button below to learn more. This is a brand new program, so stay tuned to Yellowstone communications as we will share the most up-to-date information with you.
Got questions? Email TEFA@yellowstoneschools.org