Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA)

School Choice in Texas: ESA/TEFA at Cornerstone Christian Schools

A new path to fund private education for Texas families begins soon. Get the facts, confirm eligibility, and take your next step with CCS.

The Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA), sometimes called an Education Savings Account (ESA), allows parents to use a portion of state education funds to pay for private school tuition and other approved educational expenses.

Families may receive around $10,000 per student, and eligible students with disabilities could receive up to $30,000 for specialized instruction or services.

Funds can be used for:

• Private school tuition and fees
• Uniforms, books, and technology
• Tutoring, assessments, and therapies
• Transportation and special services

Why Choose CCS?

At CCS, your child will thrive in a Christ-centered, academically rigorous, and family-oriented environment that meets all TEFA standards:

• Fully accredited by ACSI and Cognia (recognized by TEPSAC)
• College-prep academics with advanced STEM and fine arts
• ELEVATE academic support for students with learning differences
• Christ-centered community where faith and excellence meet

Who’s Eligible?

To qualify for the Texas Education Freedom Account (ESA/TEFA):

• The student must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident of Texas.
• The student must be eligible to attend public school in Texas.
• The student cannot be enrolled full-time in a public or charter school while receiving ESA funds.

If applications exceed the available number, a lottery will be held with priority given to:

• Students with disabilities
• Students from households under 200% of the federal poverty level
• Students from households under 500% of the federal poverty level
• All other students (with limited availability)

Federal Poverty Guidelines

Required Documents for TEFA Application

• Before you begin your ESA/TEFA application, gather the following:
• Proof of Residency: Current Texas driver’s license, state ID, or utility bill
• Proof of Income: Recent tax return or pay stubs (for priority tiers)
• Student Birth Certificate or Passport
• Immunization Records
• For Students with Disabilities: Documentation such as an IEP, medical diagnosis, or SSI/SSDI eligibility letter
• Enrollment Verification: Admission acceptance or enrollment form from an approved private school (such as CCS)

Family Checklist: How to Apply & Enroll

Step 1: Review eligibility requirements and confirm you’re qualified.
Step 2: Gather all required documentation listed above.
Step 3: Apply for admission to Cornerstone Christian Schools (you may do this before or after your ESA application).
Step 4: When the Texas Comptroller’s ESA/TEFA portal opens (expected January 2026), complete your application.
Step 5: Once approved, you’ll receive instructions to allocate funds toward your child’s CCS tuition and expenses.
Step 6: Confirm your child’s start date with CCS and submit your tuition agreement.

How Funds Work

• Private school students: Approx. $10,000 per student, per year
• Students with disabilities: Up to $30,000 (based on diagnosis/IEP)

Funds are placed into a state-managed account and distributed quarterly. Unused funds may roll over into the next school year.

Cornerstone Christian Schools & TEFA Eligibility

• Cornerstone Christian Schools meets the requirements to participate as an eligible private school provider:
• TEPSAC-recognized accreditation (via ACSI and Cognia)
• Standardized testing administered annually (grades 3–12)
• Over 30 years of operation as a Texas private school
• In good standing with the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission

“We believe parents should have the freedom to choose a Christ-centered education that aligns with their values and supports their child’s potential.”

— Cornerstone Christian Schools Administration

This page provides an overview of the Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA/ESA) based on publicly available information from the Texas Comptroller’s Office and State Legislature. Details are subject to change as program rules are finalized. For official information, visit comptroller.texas.gov.
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