$1,500 Grant for Students with IEPs

$1,500 Grant for Students with IEPs: What Texas Parents Need to Know

If your child is receiving special education services, the Parent-Directed Special Education Services (PDSES) grant offers a one-time $1,500 that you can use to buy educational materials or services to support your child—on top of what their school already provides.

When Can You Apply?

• The 2024–2025 application window ran from February 3, 2025 (8 AM CST) to March 31, 2025 (5 PM CST).
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• Looking ahead, the 2025–2026 application window will open in Spring 2026. Exact dates haven’t been announced yet.
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Who Is Eligible?

You may apply if your child:

• Is enrolled in a Texas public school (Pre-K to 12, including 18+ programs),
• Is receiving special education services through an IEP, and
• Has not previously received a PDSES or SSES grant.

If your child has already received the grant, they cannot reapply.
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How to Apply

1. Create a My SPEDTex account ahead of time on SPEDTex.org—this is your key to applying.
2. Once the application opens, log into My SPEDTex and click the “PDSES Parent Portal” to get started.
3. Follow the online instructions and submit before the deadline.
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What Can You Purchase with the Funds?

Through a state-approved online marketplace, PDSES funds can be used for a wide range of resources, such as:

• Educational supplies (books, school materials),
• Technology (laptops, tablets, sensory tools),
• Private services (tutoring, therapy, camps, adaptive fitness, social-skills counseling), and more.
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These grants are supplemental—your school must still provide all IEP-based services required under federal law.
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After You Apply

• Watch your email (and the PDSES portal) for your application status.
• If eligible, you’ll receive an email with instructions to activate your PDSES account and start shopping.
• If denied, you can appeal through the portal or reapply for the next school year.
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Why It Matters

This grant gives you extra power to invest in tools and support that truly help your child—whether that’s tutoring, adaptive tech, or therapeutic services not otherwise covered.

Want a reminder when the next application opens or help navigating the process? Subscribe at hirahcares.org for the latest updates and step-by-step guides.