TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Ysleta ISD
TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Ysleta ISD
Ysleta ISD serves the Lower Valley of El Paso with approximately 32,600 students. The district is one of three major districts in the El Paso metro. Families in Ysleta 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 Ysleta ISD attendance zone.
Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov
Overview of TEFA for Families in Ysleta 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. 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
Ysleta ISD serves the Lower Valley of El Paso. The district has faced enrollment declines in recent years but continues to serve the community. Official district information: Ysleta ISD. TEA profile: Ysleta ISD on Texas School Report Cards.
Private School and Alternative Education Availability near Ysleta ISD
The Lower Valley and El Paso metro have a mix of faith-based and independent private schools. The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools—verify each school's status. Ysleta ISD offers public options. El Paso ISD and Socorro 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 Ysleta ISD
TEFA eligibility is statewide; there are no district-specific requirements. Priority tiers favor returning participants, students with disabilities, and lower-income families. Residency in Ysleta 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 Ysleta 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. Ysleta 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 Ysleta ISD area.
- Review the application guide — Apply by March 17, 2026.
For metro-wide context, see TEFA in El Paso.
Frequently Asked Questions (Ysleta ISD)
What is the Lower Valley?
The Lower Valley is the southeastern portion of the El Paso metro. Ysleta ISD serves this area, along with portions of El Paso.
How many students does Ysleta ISD serve?
Ysleta ISD serves approximately 32,600 students in the Lower Valley of El Paso. The district has experienced enrollment declines in recent years.
Where can I find Ysleta ISD's official district information?
The official district website is yisd.net. The TEA district profile is available at txschools.gov.
How does Ysleta ISD compare to El Paso ISD and Socorro ISD?
Ysleta ISD serves the Lower Valley. El Paso ISD serves the urban core. Socorro ISD serves the eastern metro. All three are separate districts in the El Paso region.
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 Ysleta ISD
Providers in the El Paso area that participate in TEFA.