FAQ's about TEFA Applications- TEFA Tips for Success

(from Texas Comptroller email - sent on 2/16/26)
Thank you for being part of the historic launch of education freedom in Texas! As we send this email, more than 100,000 students have applied for Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA).

We’re hearing a few common questions and want to share helpful information:

I’ve already completed my application. Can I update the information I submitted?
Yes. You may update submitted information until 11:59 p.m. CT March 17. Log in to the Odyssey platform and find the “Application History” section to edit your application.

I’m not sure what school my child will attend next school year. Can I still apply for TEFA?
Yes. You have until the summer to select a participating private school that meets your child's needs. TEFA applications and private school admissions are separate processes, so be sure to enroll in the school you would like your child to attend. Please note: More schools are being added to our school finder toolon a regular basis.

How do I find my child's Texas Student Unique Identification (UID) Number?
The simplest way to look up your child’s UID is with this tool provided by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). This will allow us to match their records to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) on file with TEA, if one exists for the 2023-24, 2024-25 or 2025-26 school year. Please note that a student may have a UID but not have a current IEP on file.

If your child has a disability but does not have a current IEP on file, you can upload an older or out-of-state IEP or a TEFA Disability Certification Form to ensure their application is prioritized.

I have two children. One is enrolled in a K-12 school. The other is old enough for pre-K. Can both sign up for TEFA?
Yes, but pre-K students must meet different eligibility criteria. Texas children are eligible for free pre-K if they meet the age requirements and one or more of the following apply:

• They are unable to speak or comprehend the English language.
• The are eligible to participate in the national free or reduced-price lunch program.
• They are homeless.
• They are the child of an active-duty member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or the reserves.
• They are the child of a member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or the reserves, who was injured or killed while serving on active duty.
• They are or ever have been in foster care.
• They are the child of a peace officer, firefighter, or emergency medical responder seriously injured or killed in the line of duty and received the Star of Texas Award.

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More details and helpful resources are available in our updated application guide, video walk-through and from the Odyssey support website.