Houston
TEFA in Houston: What Families Need to Know
Houston is Texas's largest city by population and one of the state's most diverse metro areas. Families here have access to the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program for the 2026-27 school year, along with a wide range of public and private options. This page provides Houston-specific context on funding, private school participation, and alternatives to help you evaluate TEFA.
Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov
Funding Context for Houston
TEFA provides $10,474 for private school students, up to $30,000 for students with an IEP on file, and $2,000 for homeschool students. Houston-area private school tuition averages approximately $27,000 per year—among the highest in Texas. The standard TEFA amount covers roughly 40% of average tuition, meaning many Houston families will need to pay a significant out-of-pocket gap.
Tuition vs. TEFA Funding Comparison
| Scenario | Metro Typical | TEFA Amount | Est. Out-of-Pocket Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private school | ~$27,000 avg (among highest in TX) | $10,474 | ~$16,500+ at average schools |
| Private school (IEP on file) | ~$27,000 avg | Up to $30,000 | Often covered or minimal |
| Homeschool | N/A | $2,000 | N/A |
Tuition varies by area: suburban districts like Katy and Fort Bend often have higher-cost private options, while schools in other parts of the metro may be more affordable. Use the funding calculator to estimate your potential amount and compare it to schools you are considering.
Private School Participation
Not all private schools participate in TEFA. Schools must apply, meet accreditation requirements, and be approved. The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools. The Houston/Galveston Catholic diocese and other faith-based networks have indicated interest; verify each school's status through the official finder.
Houston has one of the state's largest private school markets. Participation is growing as the program launches—check the finder regularly for updates.
Local Alternatives
Houston-area families have several public options:
- HISD magnet programs — Houston ISD offers magnet schools and specialized programs. Admission can be competitive.
- Spring Branch ISD — The district has school choice options and diverse programs.
- Charter schools — Multiple charter networks operate across the Houston metro. Open enrollment and lottery policies vary.
- Suburban districts — Katy ISD, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Fort Bend ISD, and others serve their own communities with varying program offerings.
TEFA is one option among many. For full eligibility requirements and how to apply, see our core guides.
TEFA by School District
The Houston metro is one of the most district-diverse regions in Texas, with Houston ISD serving the urban core and multiple suburban districts—Katy, Cypress-Fairbanks, Fort Bend, and others—serving outlying areas. District boundaries can be complex; verify your address against district maps if unsure. Below are district-specific TEFA resources for:
- TEFA in Houston ISD — Houston's primary district
- TEFA in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD — Northwest Houston
- TEFA in Katy ISD — West Houston suburbs
- TEFA in Fort Bend ISD — Southwest Houston suburbs
- TEFA in Aldine ISD — North Houston
- TEFA in Conroe ISD — North Houston / The Woodlands
- TEFA in Klein ISD — Northwest Houston
- TEFA in Humble ISD — Northeast Houston
Each district page includes local context, funding considerations, and alternatives. For a full program overview, eligibility rules, and the application process, see our core pages.
Next Steps
- Check eligibility — Confirm your child meets the requirements.
- Use the funding calculator — Estimate your potential amount.
- Search the TEFA School Finder — Find participating schools in the Houston area.
- Review the application guide — Apply by March 17, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (Houston)
How much does private school cost in Houston?
Houston-area private school tuition averages approximately $27,000 per year—among the highest in Texas. TEFA provides $10,474 for private school students, so many families will need to cover a significant out-of-pocket gap. Tuition varies by school and area. Learn more: TEFA Overview
Does HISD have magnet programs?
Yes. Houston ISD offers magnet schools and specialized programs. Admission can be competitive. These are public options that do not require TEFA. Families may compare magnets with TEFA-supported private school.
Which Houston-area districts have TEFA resources?
We provide district-specific pages for Houston ISD, Cypress-Fairbanks, Katy, Fort Bend, Aldine, Conroe, Klein, and Humble ISDs. Each covers local context and alternatives. See the ISD cluster above.
When is the TEFA application deadline?
The application window runs February 4 – March 17, 2026. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central Time on March 17. Learn more: Application Guide