The Tennessee Department of Education has released the application timeline for the 26–27 Education Freedom Scholarship (EFS) program. If your family is interested in applying for or reapplying for an EFS award, please review the important dates and details below.
Key EFS Application Dates
- December 9, 2025: Application window opens for renewal applications for students currently receiving an EFS scholarship. Renewal applications are required annually for all students wishing to continue receiving EFS awards.
- January 13, 2026: Application window opens for new EFS applicants.
- January 30, 2026: Application window closes for ALL applications (both new and renewal).
Please note: Students who applied for the EFS program last year but did not receive a scholarship are considered new applicants for the 2026–27 school year and may apply beginning January 13.
The Tennessee Department of Education’s full announcement can be found at:
https://www.tn.gov/education/news/2025/11/20/tdoe-releases-education-freedom-scholarship-application-dates.html
Helpful EFS Tips:
The EFS Step-by-Step Application Guide can be found at: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/efs/2025_EFS_Application_Step-By-Step_Guide.pdf
The EFS Application Checklist can be found at: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/efs/EFS_ApplicationChecklist.pdf
Submitting an early and complete application increases your chances of being considered. Because the program is limited in availability, both timeliness and completeness are essential.
First-Come First-Served and Complete
- Applications are reviewed in the order in which finalized applications are received.
- Only complete applications will be reviewed. Incomplete ones will be returned and will lose their place in line.
- Make sure every field is filled, every document is clear and legible, and is uploaded in an acceptable file format (jpg, png, pdf, hevc, heic).
- Use the online portal for faster, more accurate submissions.
- If you are applying for multiple students, you must submit applications one at a time. Some current EFS families have shared that using separate devices, such as having a different laptop ready for each child’s application, helped streamline their process for the 25-26 applications.
Prepare Early
o Gather required documentation before the application window opens.
o Two (2) Proofs of Tennessee Residency
o One (1) Proof of Student’s U.S. Citizenship OR two (2) Proofs of Student’s Lawful Presence
o If you’re applying for the “Qualified” scholarship, one of the following documents is required:
o Proof of Income (2024 Form 1040 or SNAP/TANF documentation)
o Proof of Individualized Education Account (IEA) Program Eligibility
o Proof of Education Savings Account (ESA) Program Eligibility
The current EFS Handbook can be found at: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/efs/2025-26_EFS_Family_Handbook.pdf
Please review all linked documents for complete and accurate information directly from the State of Tennessee. For additional questions related to EFS student applications and general EFS Program inquiries, please contact the TDOE by:
- Email: EFS.Questions@tn.gov
- Phone: (615) 741-5158 - Follow the prompts for the Office of Programs and School Choice
Have questions? Contact us by email.
Please note: Participation in the EFS program is subject to state funding and legislative decisions. There is no guarantee that EFS funds will remain available in future years, and families should avoid becoming dependent on these awards when planning long-term educational expenses. We will continue to monitor the legislation closely. Any changes that compromise our freedom to operate independently or conflict with our Statement of Faith may lead us to opt out of the program.