TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for El Paso ISD
TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for El Paso ISD
El Paso ISD serves the urban core of El Paso with approximately 48,000 students. The district is the city's primary district and has a diverse student population. Families in El Paso ISD 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 El Paso ISD attendance zone.
Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov
Overview of TEFA for Families in El Paso 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. El Paso-area private school tuition typically ranges from approximately $6,000 to $15,000 per year—lower than many Texas metros. The standard TEFA amount may cover most or all of tuition at many local schools. 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
El Paso ISD serves the city of El Paso. The district has a diverse student population with a significant proportion of economically disadvantaged and emergent bilingual students. El Paso ISD offers magnet and specialized programs. Official district information: El Paso ISD. TEA profile: El Paso ISD on Texas School Report Cards.
Private School and Alternative Education Availability near El Paso ISD
The El Paso metro has a mix of faith-based and independent private schools. The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools—verify each school's status. El Paso ISD offers magnet programs. Socorro ISD and Ysleta ISD serve adjacent areas. Charter schools and homeschool co-ops operate in the region. For homeschool funding, see our homeschool page.
TEFA Funding Coverage vs. Typical Tuition in This District
El Paso-area private school tuition typically ranges from $6,000 to $15,000 per year. The standard TEFA amount of $10,474 may cover most or all of tuition at many local schools. 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 El Paso ISD
TEFA eligibility is statewide; there are no district-specific requirements. Priority tiers favor returning participants, students with disabilities, and lower-income families. El Paso ISD's diverse population means many families may qualify for income-based priority. Residency in El Paso 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 El Paso 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. El Paso ISD 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 El Paso-area tuition.
- Search the TEFA School Finder — Find participating schools in the El Paso ISD area.
- Review the application guide — Apply by March 17, 2026.
For metro-wide context, see TEFA in El Paso.
Frequently Asked Questions (El Paso ISD)
How many students does El Paso ISD serve?
El Paso ISD serves approximately 48,000 students in the urban core of El Paso. The district is the city's primary district.
Where can I find El Paso ISD's official district information?
The official district website is episd.org. The TEA district profile is available at txschools.gov.
How much does private school cost in El Paso?
El Paso-area private school tuition typically ranges from approximately $6,000 to $15,000 per year—lower than many Texas metros. TEFA's $10,474 may cover most or all of tuition at many local schools.
Does El Paso ISD have magnet programs?
Yes. El Paso ISD offers magnet and specialized programs. These are public options that do not require TEFA.
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 El Paso ISD
Providers in the El Paso area that participate in TEFA.