Private Christian Education: Financial Resources for Texas Families
For many families, choosing a private Christian education is about much more than academics. It is an investment in who their child is becoming—academically, spiritually, and personally.
But even when parents believe private education is the right choice for their child, there is often one very practical question:
Can we afford it?
As the Tuition Assistance Administrator at Covenant Christian Academy, I have worked with families across a wide range of income levels who have asked that same question. I have seen families who initially assumed a private Christian education was financially out of reach discover that, with planning and the resources available to them, it was possible.
Before you decide private school simply isn’t in your family’s budget, take time to explore all of your options. Here are five places to start.
1. Look at Your Budget and Priorities
Private education is a significant financial commitment, and for many families, making it work requires intentional choices.
Start by looking honestly at your income, expenses, savings, and long-term financial goals. Where does education fit among your family’s priorities?
For some families, choosing private school may mean driving a car a little longer, taking a less expensive vacation, eating out less frequently, or making other adjustments. Every family’s situation is different, and private school should never be approached without considering the impact on your overall financial health.
The goal isn’t simply to find enough money for tuition. It’s to build a realistic plan that allows your family to prioritize what matters most to you.
2. Apply for Tuition Assistance
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is:
“We probably make too much money to qualify for tuition assistance.”
Don’t automatically assume that.
At Covenant Christian Academy, Tuition Assistance is need-based, and there is not a single income number that determines whether a family qualifies. A family’s overall financial picture—including income, assets, expenses, and other factors—is considered through the confidential application process.
CCA purposefully sets aside funds each year to help qualified families make a Covenant education possible. Awards vary according to demonstrated financial need and available funds.
If tuition is the primary thing keeping you from considering CCA, I encourage you to apply. You won’t know what assistance may be available to your family until you go through the process.
3. Explore Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA)
Texas families now have another potential resource for helping pay for private education: Texas Education Freedom Accounts, or TEFA.
The program provides eligible participating families with state-funded education accounts that can be used toward approved educational expenses, including tuition at participating private schools.
Families considering CCA should explore TEFA in addition to CCA’s Tuition Assistance program.
For the 2027–28 school year, families who may qualify for TEFA should plan to pursue Admissions, TEFA, and Tuition Assistance concurrently. New families should continue moving through CCA’s admissions process while also completing the appropriate financial applications.
Because TEFA funding affects a family’s remaining tuition obligation, CCA will wait for a family’s TEFA determination before processing and finalizing a CCA Tuition Assistance award. For new families, Tuition Assistance will not be communicated until the student has been admitted to CCA.
The state’s 2027–28 TEFA application timeline has not yet been released, but families can sign up through the Texas Education Freedom Accounts website to receive updates about the next application period.
4. Consider Education Savings and Family Resources
Families may also have resources available that they haven’t considered using for K–12 education.
For example, certain funds from a 529 education savings plan may be used for qualified K–12 tuition expenses. Coverdell Education Savings Accounts may also provide another option for eligible families.
Talk with your financial or tax advisor about how these accounts may apply to your individual situation and about current contribution, withdrawal, and tax rules.
You might also consider whether grandparents or other family members would like to participate in the investment. Some grandparents would much rather contribute toward a grandchild’s education than purchase additional gifts or provide financial help in other ways.
It never hurts to have the conversation.
5. Take Advantage of Payment Options
You don’t necessarily have to pay an entire year’s tuition at once.
CCA offers multiple tuition payment options, allowing families to choose the approach that works best for their budget. Spreading tuition payments throughout the year can make the expense much easier to incorporate into a family’s monthly financial plan.
When comparing schools, don’t just look at the annual tuition number. Ask what tuition includes, what additional expenses you should expect, what payment options are available, and what financial assistance may be available to your family.
Don’t Rule It Out Before You Explore Your Options
A private Christian education is a significant investment, and for many families, it involves sacrifice. But the tuition number you see on a website doesn’t necessarily tell you what your family’s actual cost will be.
Tuition Assistance, TEFA, education savings accounts, family support, thoughtful budgeting, and flexible payment options can all be pieces of the puzzle.
If you believe Covenant Christian Academy may be the right place for your child, don’t let the initial tuition number keep you from taking the next step.
Explore your options. Apply for the programs available to you. Ask questions. And prayerfully consider what investment in education makes sense for your family.
You may discover that a Covenant education is more within reach than you thought.
Discover a Dynamic, Christ-Centered Learning Environment Like No Other
We invite you to learn more about student life at Covenant Christian by downloading a Parent Info Packet or scheduling a tour. We look forward to meeting you and sharing the full range of opportunities available for your child on our campus!