Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock announced that interest in Texas’ new Education Freedom Accounts program surged immediately after applications opened, with more than 20,000 students applying by noon on February 4, the first day of enrollment. According to the comptroller’s office, nearly 8,000 applications were submitted within the first hour, signaling strong demand for the state’s newly created education savings account (ESA) initiative.
The program, formally known as Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA), was established during the 89th Legislative Session through Senate Bill 2. The legislation proved contentious throughout the session, drawing opposition from every House Democrat and two Republican lawmakers. Despite the resistance, Gov. Greg Abbott signed the bill into law on May 3, clearing the way for the program’s rollout in 2026.
With a total allocation of $1 billion, TEFA is the largest ESA program in the nation. Under the program, participating students may receive up to $10,500 to cover approved education-related expenses. Students with disabilities are eligible for significantly higher support, with awards of up to $30,000, while homeschool students may receive $2,000. State officials have said that low-income families and students with disabilities will receive priority during the application and funding process.
“Today marks an exciting new chapter for Texas families,” Hancock said in a press release announcing the launch. “The Texas Education Freedom Accounts program is about one simple idea: Every child deserves an education that fits their unique needs.”
Because of the volume of interest, the TEFA website cautions families that applications may be placed in a virtual queue. However, officials emphasized that the program is not first-come, first-served. “Texas families: TEFA applications are not first-come, first-served. You have until March 17 to apply, and timing won’t affect priority,” the website states.
Private school participation is a key component of the program. According to state data, more than 1,700 private schools have registered to participate in TEFA. The highest concentrations are in major metropolitan areas, with both Houston and the Dallas–Fort Worth region hosting more than 500 participating schools each. San Antonio has 188 participating schools, while Austin has 144.
State officials say preparations are underway to manage the high level of interest and ensure a smooth application process. “Our office is moving at business speed to deliver a user-friendly experience for every family who wants to participate,” Hancock said. “We are committed to implementing this program responsibly and transparently so families across Texas can take full advantage of the opportunities ahead.”
To assist families, the comptroller’s office has published an application checklist, a parent application guide, and a video walkthrough explaining how to apply. These resources are intended to reduce confusion and help applicants understand eligibility requirements and next steps as the state moves forward with one of the most closely watched education initiatives in Texas in recent years.
