Education is Freedom (EIF) was founded in 2002 by a dynamic board of corporate leaders, government officials, and entrepreneurs committed to creating an educated workforce in today’s knowledge-based economy with individuals empowered to build effective companies and strong communities. With a belief that every young person could pursue a college education, EIF began by offering renewable scholarships to first-time college students. However, the program quickly revealed that financial support alone was insufficient to ensure college success, especially for students experiencing profound social or economic barriers.
In 2003, EIF launched a comprehensive, school-based program aimed at increasing the college-going orientation and readiness of students in the Dallas Independent School District. Since then, EIF Advisors and staff have helped more than 100,000 high school students and their families across Dallas County navigate and complete the college application and enrollment process.
EIF also supports workforce development through our growing career advising services. Our career advising for high school students includes assistance for those who intend to go directly to work after graduation or who are uncertain about their post-secondary plans. Our goal is to ensure every student is on a pathway to economic mobility.
In the 2025-2026 academic year, EIF is positioned to serve more than 32,000 high school students in eight Dallas County school districts (Dallas, Cedar Hill, DeSoto, Duncanville, Garland, Grand Prairie, Lancaster, and Mesquite) and nearly 9,000 middle school students (in Dallas and Garland ISDs) through our career exploration program.
Join us in providing scholarships to graduating high school seniors transitioning to college to help them cover expenses not typically covered by financial aid. Through our EIF Scholars program, students receive monthly mentorship and personal development opportunities designed to prepare them for life after high school and ensure their post-secondary success. Eligible students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate leadership, character, and drive. Students who complete the program receive scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000 upon proof of enrollment in an accredited post-secondary institution.
At our 2025 Evening with the Stars reception event, 150 exceptional EIF Scholars from 38 high schools in Dallas, DeSoto, Garland, Grand Prairie, and Mesquite ISDs were awarded scholarships totaling over $100,000.
The mission of Education is Freedom (EIF) is to transform lives through education. We envision a world where every young person achieves their academic and professional goals and thrives in a career that pays a family-sustaining wage.
Scholarships ($500+) for Graduating Dallas County High School Seniors:
100% of the funds raised during North Texas Giving Day will go directly toward scholarships for graduating high school seniors in Dallas County public schools. EIF Scholarships provide students with the flexibility to use their awards for any expenses that will help them successfully transition to college, such as moving costs, textbooks, and supplies.
Organization name
Education is Freedom
Causes
Education - K-12
Operating Budget
$10,000,000 or more
Counties Served
Dallas
BIPOC Serving
Black or African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latinx, Native American, Other
BIPOC Leadership
Board Chair
Address
3000 Pegasus Park Suite 704