Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that more than 100,000 families have applied to the Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA) program since its launch. The TEFA program allows eligible students to use state funds for preapproved educational providers of their choice. It is administered by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts under Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock.
Governor Abbott stated, “The TEFA program receiving more than 100,000 applications in less than two weeks proves that families overwhelmingly want school choice. Through this program, families will receive funds to send their children to a school that is the best fit for them. I congratulate Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock for his unwavering support and dedication to this program’s monumental success. Texas families are now more in control of their child’s academic success, regardless of their location or income.”
The application process began on February 4, 2026, following the signing of Senate Bill 2 into law by Governor Abbott. This legislation allocated $1 billion in funding to expand academic options for Texas families. Accepted applicants can use TEFA funds for tuition and transportation costs at schools they select.
Applications remain open online until March 17, 2026. All children who live in Texas and are United States citizens are eligible to apply. The selection process does not prioritize early applicants; all submissions during the window are considered equally.
Governor Abbott has led efforts focused on education enhancement and parental empowerment as part of his administration’s priorities since being elected in 2014, according to information from the official website. His office has also been recognized for job creation and economic opportunities statewide and was listed among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 (source). The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott operates from Austin at the State Insurance Building and provides services across Texas (source).
