Understanding McKinney Christian Academy Tuition and the Texas Education Freedom Act

Investing in a child's education is a significant decision, and for families considering a faith-based approach, McKinney Christian Academy (MCA) offers a Christ-centered, college-preparatory environment. Understanding the tuition structure and available financial aid options, including the new Texas Education Freedom Act (TEFA), is crucial for making an informed choice.

McKinney Christian Academy: An Overview

McKinney Christian Academy is a co-educational, interdenominational, college preparatory, independent, nonprofit school serving students from PreK4 through grade 12. Located in Texas, MCA aims to educate and develop students into leaders of character, honor, and integrity. The academy offers a comprehensive educational experience, integrating biblical truth into its curriculum and encouraging growth in academics, athletics, fine arts, and co-curricular activities.

Tuition and Fees at MCA

MCA's tuition covers the cost of providing a high-quality Christian education. In addition to tuition, several other fees are associated with enrollment:

Application Fee: A nonrefundable fee of $250 is required with each child’s application.
New Student Enrollment Fee: Upon acceptance and submission of the Continuous Enrollment Contract, a nonrefundable fee of $1200 per child is due.
Extended School Supervision Fee: For families needing additional care, an extended school supervision program is available at $300 per month (August - May) or $30 per day for drop-in care.
Learning Support Program: Testing and fees may be required for the Learning Support Program (formerly Directed Studies) if the applicant demonstrates a need for additional academic classroom support to be successful at MCA.

Financial Commitment: MCA mandates that all enrolling families commit financially for the entire school year. Due to contractual obligations to faculty, staff, and others, MCA does not offer refunds on any tuition and fees for any reason, including job relocation or changes in parental decisions. If an enrolled student fails to attend or continue attendance for the contracted school year, 100% of the tuition is still due and must be paid in full, as detailed in the Continuous Enrollment Contract.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, MCA offers a Financial Aid Program to families from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. This program is based on demonstrated need and allows families who might not otherwise afford full tuition to attend MCA.

Families seeking financial aid must complete an application through FACTS and submit all required supporting documentation. Applications open each December and must be renewed annually. MCA awards financial aid up to 50% of tuition for a maximum of three students per family. Note that Pre-K students are not eligible for financial aid. All information provided in the Financial Aid application is kept confidential and is accessible only by the Business Office.

The Texas Education Freedom Act (TEFA) and MCA

The Texas Education Freedom Act (TEFA), established through Senate Bill 2, introduces the Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA) program starting in the 2026-27 school year. This program could significantly impact how families finance private education at schools like McKinney Christian Academy.

What is TEFA?

TEFA provides eligible families with approximately $10,000 per student each year to be used toward private school tuition and other approved educational costs. The program aims to expand access to private education, especially for low to moderate-income families and students with special learning needs.

MCA's Participation in TEFA

McKinney Christian Academy meets the state’s eligibility guidelines and has chosen to participate in the TEFA program. MCA's Board of Trustees approved participation, as the program aligns with the school's Christ-honoring mission, biblical worldview curriculum, and covenant-based independence. MCA is committed to prayerfully stewarding this opportunity while ensuring its mission, values, and school autonomy remain protected.

TEFA Eligibility and Timeline

Applications for families will open in February 2026, and qualified schools can begin accepting and applying TEFA funds in August 2026. Priority for TEFA funding will be given to:

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Students with disabilities from families earning up to 500% of the federal poverty level.
Low-income families earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level.
Siblings of students already receiving TEFA funds.
A limited number of families earning above 500% of the federal poverty level (capped at 20% of the program’s total budget).

Students currently enrolled in private schools, including McKinney Christian Academy, may become eligible once these priority groups have been served.

How TEFA Funds Can Be Used at MCA

TEFA funds can be used for various educational expenses, including private school tuition, curriculum resources, tutoring and academic testing, transportation, technology, therapies and diagnostic services, and school meals. At MCA, TEFA funds must be prioritized and used toward tuition first.

Impact on Tuition and MCA's Values

TEFA funds are not intended to change tuition rates at MCA. Instead, they will be used to:

Broaden tuition support for all families through MCA’s existing programs.
Strengthen and enrich academic offerings.
Make MCA more accessible to families committed to its Christ-centered mission.

MCA emphasizes that its participation in the TEFA program will not impact its academics or Christian values. The school will not accept or retain funding that undermines religious liberty or school autonomy. MCA maintains full authority over admissions standards, curriculum, and the day-to-day operation of the school.

MCA's Role in the TEFA Process

McKinney Christian Academy is an active member of the Texas Private Schools Association (TPSA), which played a key role in securing religious protections within the legislation.

International Students

McKinney Christian Academy welcomes international students seeking an American college preparatory education with a Christian worldview. These students can openly discuss their faith and deepen their understanding of Scripture within the supportive environment of MCA's Christian teachers and students. International students must demonstrate maturity and align with MCA's expectations regarding behavior, emotional, and social conduct. While attending MCA, international students are required to live with an approved Christian family. MCA hosts students from various countries, including China, South Korea, Jamaica, Zambia, and Taiwan. Once accepted, international students are granted I-20 student status.

The Application Process

The admission process at McKinney Christian Academy consists of three steps:

Online Application: Interested families must complete the online application form. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year are currently open.
Assessment & Visit: Applicants will undergo an assessment and are encouraged to visit the school to experience the MCA environment.
Interview: An interview will be conducted to further assess the applicant's suitability for MCA.

After completing these steps, the Admissions Committee will review the complete Admissions File and typically provide an admissions decision within 3-4 weeks. If the decision is to accept, enrollment information and supporting documents will be sent, with a one-week deadline to complete the Online Continuous Enrollment Contract and submit the Enrollment Fee.

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