What is the timeline for IEP transfers in Texas?

When a student transfers, the new district is required to begin providing services comparable to the previous IEP right away. According to the Texas Education Agency’s special education guidance, services must continue during the transition rather than pause while records are reviewed.

The district has 20 school days to either adopt the previous IEP or hold an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee meeting to create a new one. If the district determines that a new evaluation is needed, it must be completed within 45 school days.

These protections also apply when transferring from another state. Texas must still begin comparable services immediately, even if the previous IEP was developed elsewhere. However, the district may require a new evaluation, often called a Full and Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE), to confirm eligibility under Texas standards. Families can learn more through Texas special education transfer guidance and the federal IDEA overview.

To make the process smoother, families should:

• Bring the current IEP, evaluations, and progress reports
• Confirm when comparable services will begin
• Track the 20-day and 45-day timelines
• Follow up if timelines are not met

If issues arise, families can review the Texas complaint process.

If you are comparing school-based supports, Alpaca’s guide to Texas 504 Plans can help clarify how 504 plans differ from IEPs.

For autistic children, school-based supports and ABA therapy are separate benefits. Alpaca helps families access care faster with no waitlists, provider-led treatment, support with insurance and paperwork, and flexible care settings. Start an ABA intake with Alpaca Health.