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Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) Program

Give Your Child the Freedom to Learn

At American Virtual Academy, we believe families should have the freedom to choose the right education for their child. Arizona’s ESA program makes this possible by giving you access to state funds for private or online learning, tutoring, and other approved services. These funds allow your child to learn in an environment that reflects your values and supports their growth.

Apply for Arizona ESA Funds

What Is Arizona’s ESA Program?

The ESA program provides families with state funding that can be used for a wide range of educational services. Instead of being limited to a public or charter school, families can direct these funds to the educational experience that works best for their child. That includes enrolling at American Virtual Academy.

Arizona’s ESA program is one of the most inclusive in the nation, open to every K–12 student in the state.

Who Is Eligible?

Every K–12 student in Arizona is eligible, as long as they:

  • Live in Arizona
  • Are eligible to enroll in a public school
  • Are not receiving a tax-credit scholarship

Note: Preschool-aged children with an IEP, MET report, or 504 plan also qualify.

How Much Can Families Receive?

Arizona ESA funds are calculated at 90% of the state’s base education funding, which typically equals:

  • Between $7,000 and $8,000 per year
  • Higher amounts for students with special needs

Note: Funds are deposited quarterly and can be used on approved educational expenses.

What Can ESA Funds Be Used For?

Arizona ESA funds can be spent on a variety of learning-related services, including:

  • Private or online school tuition
  • Curriculum and textbooks
  • Tutoring or educational therapy
  • Technology, learning devices, and internet access
  • Testing services and academic assessments
  • Postsecondary courses and materials
  • Transportation, uniforms, and more

Note: All expenses must follow state program guidelines.

How to apply for ESA Funds?

Families can apply online at any time through the Arizona Department of Education’s ESA portal.

Apply for ESA Funds

Note: Applications are open year-round, with no income or public school attendance requirements.

What Can ESA

Funds Be Used For?

  • No income limits – all families qualify
  • No requirement to have attended public school
  • ESA recipients cannot also receive tax-credit scholarships
  • Students using ESA funds cannot be enrolled in a public or charter school
  • All ESA funds must be spent on educational uses defined by the state
Apply for Arizona ESA Funds

Need Help Getting Started?

Our team at American Virtual Academy is ready to support you every step of the way. We’ll help you understand the ESA process, choose the right learning plan for your child, and begin your journey with confidence.

Learn More About American Virtual Academy