Question 1

Do I need to register or file anything to homeschool in Texas?

Accepted Answer

No. Texas treats homeschools like private schools, so there is no registration, form, or notice to file. If your child is currently enrolled in a public school, simply send the school a signed, dated withdrawal letter saying you are homeschooling and when it begins.

Question 2

What subjects does Texas require homeschoolers to teach?

Accepted Answer

Texas courts require a course of study covering five areas: reading, spelling, grammar, math, and good citizenship. There is no required number of hours or school days, and no state testing for homeschooled students.

Question 3

How much TEFA money can a homeschooling family receive?

Accepted Answer

For the 2026-27 school year, a homeschooled child accepted into the Texas Education Freedom Accounts program receives $2,000 per year, deposited in full on July 1. Students enrolled in participating private schools receive $10,474, and some students with disabilities may receive up to $30,000. Check the current program materials at educationfreedom.texas.gov, since amounts are set each year.

Question 4

Can TEFA funds pay for an online curriculum subscription?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Approved expenses include tuition and fees for online educational courses or programs, plus instructional materials and educational software, as long as the provider has been approved and appears in the program's Odyssey marketplace. Confirm any specific product in your Odyssey account before purchasing.

Question 5

Is the TEFA application still open?

Accepted Answer

No. The first application window for the 2026-27 school year ran February 4 through March 31, 2026 and has closed, with more than 274,000 applications received. Families interested in 2027-28 can join the official interest list and sign up for updates at educationfreedom.texas.gov. Awarded families stay in the program without reapplying as long as they remain in good standing.

Question 6

Do TEFA homeschool participants have to give up homeschooling or take state tests?

Accepted Answer

No. Homeschooled children participate in TEFA as homeschoolers. The annual norm-referenced testing requirement in the program applies to participating private schools, not to homeschool participants. Always confirm current rules in the program handbook.

Your Texas homeschool checklist.

Getting started

Through the year

Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) paperwork

Homeschooling in Texas? We’ll handle the paperwork side.

Sources