Last Updated: March 23, 2026
This page reflects the most current TEFA application guidance and portal behavior available at this time. Information may evolve as the state continues the rollout.
This page reflects the most current TEFA application guidance and portal behavior available at this time. Information may evolve as the state continues the rollout.
Texas School Choice Voucher Program & Nexus
Starting Fall 2026, Texas will provide families with up to $10,000 per student to attend an eligible private school.
Applications for TEFA will be open from February 4 at 9:00am until March 31 at 11:59pm, 2026.
TEFA Application Deadline Extended: March 31, 2026The deadline to apply for the Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA) program has been extended to March 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM CT. Families may submit their application and all required materials—including any Individualized Education Program (IEP) documentation—by this extended deadline.
Important Application Information
School Selection & Funding Timeline
Families will be able to select their school after applications are submitted. Key deadlines include:
Nexus TEFA Participation Status
Nexus Futbol Academy has submitted its accreditation application and is currently in the review process. Schools are added to the TEFA/Odyssey list of eligible participating schools after accreditation approvals are finalized. We expect updates regarding participating schools in early summer. As soon as Nexus appears in the Odyssey system, we will notify families so they can select Nexus as their school of choice.
Register Now.
Important Application Information
- Families can log in to the Odyssey platform at any time before the deadline to update their child’s information.
- Families do not need to select a school at the time of application. Additional schools are continuing to join the program.
- The program is not first-come, first-served. All applications are reviewed equally within each priority tier, regardless of submission timing.
School Selection & Funding Timeline
Families will be able to select their school after applications are submitted. Key deadlines include:
- June 1 → Select a school to receive funding by July 1
- July 15 → Select a school to receive funding before the start of the school year in August
Nexus TEFA Participation Status
Nexus Futbol Academy has submitted its accreditation application and is currently in the review process. Schools are added to the TEFA/Odyssey list of eligible participating schools after accreditation approvals are finalized. We expect updates regarding participating schools in early summer. As soon as Nexus appears in the Odyssey system, we will notify families so they can select Nexus as their school of choice.
Register Now.
What is TEFA?
The Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA) allows families to use state funds for eligible education expenses, including tuition at private schools, tutoring, and certain homeschool costs. TEFA is designed to give families flexibility to choose what best supports their child’s learning.
Why it matters for Nexus Families:
TEFA funding can help make Nexus programs more accessible. Even as we work through the accreditation process, understanding TEFA now ensures families are ready to take advantage of funding opportunities.
The Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA) allows families to use state funds for eligible education expenses, including tuition at private schools, tutoring, and certain homeschool costs. TEFA is designed to give families flexibility to choose what best supports their child’s learning.
Why it matters for Nexus Families:
TEFA funding can help make Nexus programs more accessible. Even as we work through the accreditation process, understanding TEFA now ensures families are ready to take advantage of funding opportunities.
FAQs
Does applying commit us to Nexus?
No. Submitting a TEFA application is separate from admissions. Families can apply for TEFA without committing to any specific school.
Should we apply if Nexus isn’t listed yet?
Yes. TEFA applications are submitted during a window that occurs before all schools and providers are publicly listed. Approved schools are added on a rolling basis, so applying early ensures you are in the system when Nexus participation is confirmed.
What happens if we don’t use the funds?
TEFA funds are applied to the student’s eligible education expenses. If you don’t use the funds for the approved purpose, you will not lose eligibility for future years, but specific guidance is provided by the state.
When should we apply?
Apply during the official TEFA application window, which begins on February 4, 2026. Early applications are encouraged because funding allocation is limited.
Where can we find official information?
Visit the Texas Comptroller’s TEFA page for official guidance and resources.
How are TEFA funds prioritized if applications exceed availability?
TEFA funding is allocated by the state based on available funds. While we cannot guarantee how individual applications will be prioritized, submitting your application during the official window helps ensure your family is considered. We monitor all updates closely and will share guidance as soon as the state provides additional information.
Do siblings require separate TEFA applications?
Families can include multiple children on a single TEFA application. Each student is reviewed individually for funding, even when submitted together. While the application itself is completed directly by families through the state portal, we’re happy to share general updates and reminders as information becomes available.
Does Nexus currently accept TEFA vouchers?
To accept TEFA vouchers, schools must be accredited. Nexus is currently pursuing COGNIA accreditation. Once accreditation is complete and all requirements are met, Nexus may be able to accept voucher funds for families starting in Fall 2026.
Why can’t I complete my TEFA application right now?
Some families have reported that when they reach the final step of the TEFA application, the system requires selecting a participating school in order to submit. If a preferred school is not yet listed, the portal may return applicants to previous pages instead of completing submission. This appears to be related to how the application system is currently built, not an issue with your eligibility. Because schools are added on a rolling basis, families may need to wait until their preferred school appears in the system before they are able to fully submit. Nexus is actively tracking this issue and will communicate updates as soon as additional guidance is provided or our participation status is reflected in the portal.
Can I still apply for financial aid?
Financial aid from the Nexus Academy Foundation is available to help families — but please note:
Want to learn more? Visit our Financial Aid page for more information.
Does applying commit us to Nexus?
No. Submitting a TEFA application is separate from admissions. Families can apply for TEFA without committing to any specific school.
Should we apply if Nexus isn’t listed yet?
Yes. TEFA applications are submitted during a window that occurs before all schools and providers are publicly listed. Approved schools are added on a rolling basis, so applying early ensures you are in the system when Nexus participation is confirmed.
What happens if we don’t use the funds?
TEFA funds are applied to the student’s eligible education expenses. If you don’t use the funds for the approved purpose, you will not lose eligibility for future years, but specific guidance is provided by the state.
When should we apply?
Apply during the official TEFA application window, which begins on February 4, 2026. Early applications are encouraged because funding allocation is limited.
Where can we find official information?
Visit the Texas Comptroller’s TEFA page for official guidance and resources.
How are TEFA funds prioritized if applications exceed availability?
TEFA funding is allocated by the state based on available funds. While we cannot guarantee how individual applications will be prioritized, submitting your application during the official window helps ensure your family is considered. We monitor all updates closely and will share guidance as soon as the state provides additional information.
Do siblings require separate TEFA applications?
Families can include multiple children on a single TEFA application. Each student is reviewed individually for funding, even when submitted together. While the application itself is completed directly by families through the state portal, we’re happy to share general updates and reminders as information becomes available.
Does Nexus currently accept TEFA vouchers?
To accept TEFA vouchers, schools must be accredited. Nexus is currently pursuing COGNIA accreditation. Once accreditation is complete and all requirements are met, Nexus may be able to accept voucher funds for families starting in Fall 2026.
Why can’t I complete my TEFA application right now?
Some families have reported that when they reach the final step of the TEFA application, the system requires selecting a participating school in order to submit. If a preferred school is not yet listed, the portal may return applicants to previous pages instead of completing submission. This appears to be related to how the application system is currently built, not an issue with your eligibility. Because schools are added on a rolling basis, families may need to wait until their preferred school appears in the system before they are able to fully submit. Nexus is actively tracking this issue and will communicate updates as soon as additional guidance is provided or our participation status is reflected in the portal.
Can I still apply for financial aid?
Financial aid from the Nexus Academy Foundation is available to help families — but please note:
- Aid is limited and not guaranteed.
- To qualify, students must meet all three pillars of our program (leader, scholar, athlete0.
- Preference is given to current students first.
- Awards depend on funds raised through foundation fundraising; availability may vary.
Want to learn more? Visit our Financial Aid page for more information.
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Helpful Resources:
Texas Comptroller TEFA Info — Official State Resource TEFA Checklist — A step-by-step guide for families Sign up for TEFA email alerts |
Our Commitment to Families
Navigating TEFA and school choice can feel overwhelming. At Nexus, we do the research parents don’t have time for, track updates, and provide guidance so families can make confident decisions. We are dedicated to keeping you informed and supported every step of the way.
Navigating TEFA and school choice can feel overwhelming. At Nexus, we do the research parents don’t have time for, track updates, and provide guidance so families can make confident decisions. We are dedicated to keeping you informed and supported every step of the way.
Have Questions?
Reach out to Stephanie at [email protected]
She can help answer your questions and discuss what options might be best for your family.
Reach out to Stephanie at [email protected]
She can help answer your questions and discuss what options might be best for your family.