Texas officials are moving forward with the state’s new school voucher program, giving private schools and families a clear timeline for participation ahead of the 2026–27 school year. The program, expected to become the largest of its kind in the U.S., sets funding limits, eligibility rules, and priority guidelines for families seeking state-supported educational alternatives.
When Applications Open
For schools and vendors
- On December 9, applications for private schools and current vendors were open.
For families
- The online application for families opens Feb. 6, 2026, with an open window until mid-March and status updates expected in early May.
The program is overseen by the Texas comptroller’s office, with financial administration by Odyssey.
How Much Funding Is Available
The program starts with $1 billion in its first year, serving up to 90,000 students, and could scale to $4.5 billion per year by 2030.
Award amounts
- Most families will receive about $10,300–$10,900 annually per student, with a current estimate of $10,800, according to The Texas Tribune.
- Students with disabilities may receive up to $30,000.
- Home-schoolers are eligible for $2,000.
- Preschoolers who meet state free public pre-K requirements qualify for the full amount.
Approved students do not need to reapply each year as long as they remain in good standing.
How Priority Works if Demand Exceeds Funding
If applications exceed available slots, The Texas Tribune reports the comptroller must prioritize in this order:
- Students with disabilities from families at or below 500% of the federal poverty level (roughly $160,000 for a family of four).
- Families at or below 200% of the poverty level (under roughly $64,300).
- Families between 200% and 500% of the poverty level.
- Families at or above 500% of the poverty level, limited to 20% of the budget.
Receiving priority does not guarantee admission, as private schools are not required to alter their admissions process.
Special Education Rules
The finalized rules allow families to use a physician’s note or Social Security determination letter to document a disability. The comptroller disagreed and kept the alternative documentation.
Students accepted into participating private schools must still receive a comprehensive educational evaluation before accessing additional disability-related funds.
How to Apply
For families:
- Apply once the online application opens in early February 2026.
- Ensure any disability‑related documentation (e.g., physician’s note or Social Security letter) is included if seeking higher funding.
- Wait for status updates, expected by early May 2026.
For private schools and vendors:
- Apply online beginning Dec. 9, 2025.
- Schools participate on a rolling basis after that date.
