How to Use TEFA Funds for High School in Texas

The Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA) program allows participating families to use public education funds for approved educational expenses.

For high school students who are enrolled in private school or are homeschooled, TEFA funds may help support a more flexible and personalized high school experience through options such as dual enrollment, online coursework, tutoring, career training programs, and other approved educational services.

As students begin preparing for college, workforce training, or other post-graduation pathways, many families use TEFA funds to help customize their child's high school learning plan.

Using TEFA Funds for Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment allows high school students to earn college credit while still completing their high school education.

TEFA funds may help cover eligible dual enrollment courses through TEFA-approved colleges or universities.

Before enrolling in a dual enrollment program, it may be helpful to confirm:

• Whether specific courses qualify as approved TEFA expenses
• How dual enrollment credits will appear on high school transcripts
• Whether credits are likely to transfer to future colleges or universities

Dual enrollment can be a flexible option for students interested in earning college credit early while exploring future academic pathways.

Online Classes and Flexible Learning

TEFA funds may also support online coursework and flexible learning opportunities for homeschooled or private school high school students.

This may include:

• Live virtual classes
• Self-paced online coursework
• Advanced academic classes
• Elective courses
• College-prep writing support
• Coding, technology, or specialized interest-based classes

Online learning may be used as a full-time educational approach or as part of a broader homeschool or private school program.

Approved providers through the Odyssey marketplace may also offer additional flexibility for students with unique scheduling needs, extracurricular commitments, or specialized academic interests. Outschool's live online classes are available through Odyssey for TEFA-eligible families.

Career Training and Certification Programs

TEFA-eligible high school students can also take part in approved career training and workforce certification programs such as culinary arts, cosmetology, healthcare, IT, and other workforce-focused career pathways.

Career training programs may help students begin developing workforce skills, certifications, or hands-on experience before graduation.

Tutoring and College Prep

Private and homeschooled students may also use TEFA funds for approved tutoring and academic support services.

Depending on provider approval, TEFA funds may help cover:

• Subject-specific tutoring
• SAT or ACT preparation
• College admissions coaching
• Essay writing support
• Advanced math or science tutoring
• Academic planning support

Additional academic support can help students strengthen coursework, prepare for standardized testing, or receive individualized instruction in challenging subject areas. 1-on-1 tutoring on Outschool covers a wide range of subjects for high school students.

Planning for College Admissions and Transcripts

Homeschool families with high school students often create and maintain their own academic records and transcripts throughout the high school years.

As students prepare for college applications, it may be helpful to keep organized records of:

• High school coursework
• Grades and credits
• Dual enrollment classes
• Standardized test scores
• Extracurricular activities
• Volunteer work, internships, or certifications

Some families also choose to use accredited online programs, outside coursework, or dual enrollment classes as part of a broader high school transcript plan.

Planning ahead during ninth and tenth grade can help make college applications and transcript preparation much easier later in high school.

TEFA can provide high school students with flexible educational options that support a variety of college, career, and educational pathways.

As with any educational decision, thoughtful planning, organized record-keeping, and ongoing evaluation can help families make the most of the opportunities available through the TEFA program.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice.