TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for San Antonio ISD
TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for San Antonio ISD
San Antonio ISD (SAISD) serves central San Antonio with approximately 44,000 students. The district is the city's urban-core district and has a diverse student population with a high proportion of economically disadvantaged students. Families in San Antonio 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 San Antonio ISD attendance zone.
Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov
Overview of TEFA for Families in San Antonio 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. San Antonio-area private school tuition typically ranges from approximately $8,000 to $18,000 per year—lower than Houston or Austin. The standard TEFA amount may cover a larger share of tuition at many local schools. SAISD's high economically disadvantaged population means many families may qualify for income-based priority tiers. 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
San Antonio ISD serves central San Antonio. The district has a diverse student population; a high proportion of students are economically disadvantaged. SAISD offers choice schools and specialized programs open to students inside and outside the district. Official district information: San Antonio ISD. TEA profile: San Antonio ISD on Texas School Report Cards.
Private School and Alternative Education Availability near San Antonio ISD
The San Antonio metro has a strong private school presence. The Archdiocese of San Antonio has encouraged Catholic schools to participate in TEFA. The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools—verify each school's status. SAISD offers choice schools and specialized programs. Charter schools and homeschool co-ops operate in the area. For homeschool funding, see our homeschool page. For students with disabilities, see our special needs funding page.
TEFA Funding Coverage vs. Typical Tuition in This District
San Antonio-area private school tuition typically ranges from $8,000 to $18,000 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 San Antonio ISD
TEFA eligibility is statewide; there are no district-specific requirements. Priority tiers favor returning participants, students with disabilities, and lower-income families. SAISD's high economically disadvantaged population means many families may qualify for income-based priority, which can improve lottery standing. Residency in San Antonio 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 San Antonio 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. San Antonio 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 San Antonio-area tuition.
- Search the TEFA School Finder — Find participating schools in the San Antonio ISD area.
- Review the application guide — Apply by March 17, 2026.
For metro-wide context, see TEFA in San Antonio.
Frequently Asked Questions (San Antonio ISD)
How many students does San Antonio ISD serve?
San Antonio ISD serves approximately 44,000 students in central San Antonio. The district has a diverse student population and a high proportion of economically disadvantaged students.
Does San Antonio ISD have choice schools?
Yes. San Antonio ISD offers choice schools and specialized programs open to students inside and outside the district. Applications for the 2026-27 school year are available on the district website.
Where can I find San Antonio ISD's official district information?
The official district website is saisd.net. The TEA district profile is available at txschools.gov.
Do San Antonio ISD families qualify for TEFA priority tiers?
TEFA priority tiers favor lower-income families. SAISD's high economically disadvantaged population means many families may qualify for income-based priority. 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 San Antonio ISD
Providers in the San Antonio area that participate in TEFA.