TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Fort Worth ISD
TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Fort Worth ISD
Fort Worth ISD serves the city of Fort Worth with approximately 70,000 students across 135 campuses. The district is the primary district for Fort Worth and has a diverse student population. Families in Fort Worth 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 Fort Worth ISD attendance zone.
Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov
Overview of TEFA for Families in Fort Worth 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. In the Dallas-Fort Worth metro, private school tuition typically ranges from approximately $8,000 to $25,000 or more per year. The standard TEFA amount may cover a portion to most of tuition depending on the school. 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
Fort Worth ISD serves the city of Fort Worth. The district operates 135 schools with a diverse student population and mixed income levels. Fort Worth ISD offers magnet programs and school choice options. Official district information: Fort Worth ISD. TEA profile: Fort Worth ISD on Texas School Report Cards.
Private School and Alternative Education Availability near Fort Worth ISD
The Fort Worth area has a moderate to strong private school presence. The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools—verify each school's status. Fort Worth ISD offers magnet programs. Charter schools and homeschool co-ops operate in the area. For homeschool funding, see our homeschool page.
TEFA Funding Coverage vs. Typical Tuition in This District
Dallas-Fort Worth metro private school tuition typically ranges from $8,000 to $25,000 or more per year. The standard TEFA amount of $10,474 may cover most or all of tuition at lower-cost 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 Fort Worth ISD
TEFA eligibility is statewide; there are no district-specific requirements. Priority tiers favor returning participants, students with disabilities, and lower-income families. Fort Worth ISD's diverse population means many families may qualify for income-based priority. Residency in Fort Worth 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 Fort Worth 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. Fort Worth 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 DFW-area tuition.
- Search the TEFA School Finder — Find participating schools in the Fort Worth ISD area.
- Review the application guide — Apply by March 17, 2026.
For metro-wide context, see TEFA in Fort Worth.
Frequently Asked Questions (Fort Worth ISD)
How many students does Fort Worth ISD serve?
Fort Worth ISD serves approximately 70,000 students across 135 campuses, making it one of the largest districts in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro.
Does Fort Worth ISD have magnet programs?
Yes. Fort Worth ISD offers magnet programs and school choice options. These are public options that do not require TEFA. Families may compare them with TEFA-supported private school.
Where can I find Fort Worth ISD's official district information?
The official district website is fwisd.org. The TEA district profile is available at txschools.gov.
Is TEFA eligibility different for Fort Worth ISD families?
No. TEFA eligibility is statewide. Residency in Fort Worth ISD does not change the requirements. See our eligibility page.
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 Fort Worth ISD
Providers in the Fort Worth area that participate in TEFA.