TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD (Cy-Fair) serves northwest Harris County with approximately 116,000 students across 88 campuses. The district covers roughly 180 square miles and is one of the largest in Texas by enrollment. Families in Cy-Fair have access to the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program for the 2026-27 school year. This guide provides district-specific context on eligibility, funding, and alternatives to help you evaluate TEFA within the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD attendance zone.
Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov
Overview of TEFA for Families in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
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. Cy-Fair area private school tuition varies; the Houston metro average is approximately $27,000. The standard TEFA amount covers roughly 40% of average tuition. Families with children who have an IEP may qualify for the higher tier. Homeschool families receive $2,000 per eligible child. See the TEFA overview for full program details.
District Overview and Student Population Context
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD serves the Cypress and Fairbanks areas in northwest Harris County, including portions of Houston, Jersey Village, and unincorporated areas. The district operates 88 schools. Example campuses include Cy-Fair High School, Spillane Middle School, Fiest Elementary School, and numerous other elementary, middle, and high schools. Cy-Fair has a mid-to-high income demographic profile and strong academic performance. Official district information: Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. TEA profile: Cypress-Fairbanks ISD on Texas School Report Cards (search for Cypress-Fairbanks).
Private School and Alternative Education Availability near Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
The Cy-Fair area has a moderate private school presence compared to some Houston suburbs. The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools—verify each school's status. Charter schools operate in the area. Cy-Fair ISD offers strong public options; some families consider TEFA when seeking faith-based instruction, smaller class sizes, or specialized programs. Homeschool co-ops and hybrid programs serve the northwest Houston community. For homeschool funding details, see our homeschool page.
TEFA Funding Coverage vs. Typical Tuition in This District
Houston-area private school tuition averages approximately $27,000 per year. The standard TEFA amount of $10,474 covers roughly 40%, leaving many families with an out-of-pocket gap. Schools in the Cy-Fair area may vary; some faith-based and smaller schools charge less. Students with an IEP on file may qualify for up to $30,000. Use the funding calculator to estimate your amount. Full funding details: TEFA overview.
Eligibility Considerations Specific to Families in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
TEFA eligibility is statewide; there are no district-specific requirements. Priority tiers favor returning participants, students with disabilities, and lower-income families. Cy-Fair's mid-to-high income profile means some families may not fall into income-based priority tiers, but all eligible families may apply. Residency in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD does not change eligibility. See the eligibility requirements. If your child has an IEP, review our special needs funding page.
How to Apply from Within Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
The application process is the same regardless of district. Apply through Odyssey during the window (February 4 – March 17, 2026). You will need proof of Texas residency, proof of the child's age, and—if applicable—IEP documentation. Our application guide walks through each step. Cy-Fair students who are accepted into TEFA will leave the district to attend a participating private school or to homeschool.
Next Steps and Funding Calculator CTA
- Check eligibility — Confirm your child meets the requirements.
- Use the funding calculator — Estimate your potential amount and compare to Houston-area tuition.
- Search the TEFA School Finder — Find participating schools in the Cy-Fair area.
- Review the application guide — Apply by March 17, 2026.
For metro-wide context, see TEFA in Houston.
Frequently Asked Questions (Cypress-Fairbanks ISD)
How large is Cypress-Fairbanks ISD?
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD serves approximately 116,000 students across 88 campuses, covering roughly 180 square miles in northwest Harris County. It is one of the largest districts in Texas.
What areas does Cy-Fair ISD cover?
Cy-Fair serves the Cypress and Fairbanks areas in northwest Harris County, including portions of Houston, Jersey Village, and unincorporated areas.
Where can I find Cypress-Fairbanks ISD's official district information?
The official district website is cfisd.net. The TEA district profile is available at txschools.gov.
Are there private schools in the Cy-Fair area that participate in TEFA?
The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools. Participation is growing; verify each school's status through the official finder.
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. Application guide.
TEFA Providers Serving Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
Providers in the Houston area that participate in TEFA.