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Texas Education Freedom Account application deadline extended through March 31
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March 18, 2026HOUSTON — Texas state officials announced today that applications for the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program will be extended through 11:59 p.m. CT on March 31.
The extension satisfies a federal court order issued by Judge Alfred H. Bennett of the Southern District of Texas, they said.
"TEFA permits families the opportunity to choose an environment that reflects their beliefs and values. Families are free to choose a learning environment where children can grow in their faith and knowledge, becoming the people God created them to be. Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston have a long tradition of promoting excellence in academics, encouraging spiritual growth and assisting in the formation of students in mind, heart and spirit," said Mazie McCoy, Ed.D., superintendent of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. "Our Catholic schools prepare students to be productive citizens and future leaders. TEFA provides an avenue for parents to partner with Catholic schools to continue this tradition in their families."
Parents may submit new applications before the extended deadline. Those who have already submitted their applications may also log in to the Odyssey platform to update their child’s information.
According to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, more than 229,000 students have applied, and 2,200 schools have signed up to participate. Families do not have to select a school when they submit their application, and more schools are joining the program daily. The program is not first come, first served, so all families will be considered on a level playing field within each priority tier, regardless of when their application is submitted.
Online student applications are open through March 31, 2026, on the Texas Education Freedom Accounts website: www.educationfreedom.texas.gov.