The Texas comptroller’s office has finalized the administrative rules governing the state’s new Education Freedom Accounts, the school choice program created earlier this year.
The enactment of statewide school choice marked a major turning point in Texas education policy. The issue was made a top legislative priority by Gov. Greg Abbott, who repeatedly vowed to ensure that parents—not school districts—control their children’s education. After years of failed attempts and House resistance, Abbott ultimately succeeded in securing passage of Senate Bill 2 earlier this year, clearing the way for families to access education funds outside of the government school system.
“These administrative rules, like the program itself, put Texas parents in the driver’s seat,” Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock said in a statement announcing the rollout. “We are executing the letter of the law as passed by the Legislature, and we’re doing it with families and students at the center of every decision. Education freedom accounts are about opening doors, expanding opportunities and giving each Texas child the chance to succeed in the environment that fits them best.”
The comptroller’s office says it received more than 300 written public comments during the rule-setting process, in addition to testimony at a public hearing. Hancock said the final version incorporates feedback while staying faithful to the statute passed by the House and Senate.
Under the rules, students attending accredited private schools participating in the program, as well as qualifying at-risk pre-K students, may receive more than $10,000 per year. Students with disabilities supported by an Individualized Education Program may be eligible for up to $30,000. All other participating students—including homeschool students—may receive $2,000 annually.
The program has been allocated $1 billion for its pilot year.
The rules also clarify several program elements. A family’s adjusted gross income will be used when determining prioritization for participation. Families of students with disabilities may submit an evaluation from a qualified professional for prioritization, although an IEP is required to qualify for the higher financial support. Participants who remain in good standing will not need to reapply each year.
Accredited private schools may participate if they have operated any campus for at least two years, whether inside or outside Texas, and administer a nationally norm-referenced assessment. Accredited private virtual schools must have a Texas business location. Hancock’s office emphasized that the rules do not impose new operational requirements beyond those already in statute or accreditation standards.
Online applications for Texas families will open February 4, 2026, ahead of the 2026–27 school year.
“Our mission is to execute SB 2 responsibly, transparently and quickly,” Hancock said. “These rules uphold the intent of the Legislature and keep the focus where it belongs — on students and their future. Since first serving on our local school board more than 30 years ago, I have believed parents – not a ZIP code – should determine their kids’ educational opportunities. It’s an honor to get this program up and running for Texans.”
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