Put Your Child’s Education in Your Hands
The Arkansas Children’s Educational Freedom Account Program provides qualifying families with public education funds—up to $6,856 per student per year—to pay for private school tuition or other approved learning expenses.
With this ESA, Arkansas families can choose the educational path that best fits their values, needs, and goals.
Apply for Arkansas ESA Funds
Who Can Apply?
The program is transitioning to universal eligibility by the 2025–2026 school year. Until then, eligibility is expanding in phases.
For 2024–2025, eligible students include:
- Students in D- or F-rated school zones
- Children of veterans, reservists, first responders, or law enforcement officers
- Students with disabilities or those in foster care or homeless
- Students entering kindergarten
- Siblings of current participants
Note: In 2025–2026, all Arkansas K–12 students eligible for public school enrollment may apply. The enrollment cap is lifted, and the program becomes statewide. Are not receiving a tax-credit scholarship
Apply for ESA Funds
How Much Can Families Receive?
Most ESA participants receive up to 90% of the state’s per-pupil foundation funding—about $6,856 for 2024–2025.
Succeed Scholarship recipients may receive 100% of the per-student funding, or up to $7,741.
Note: Funds are distributed quarterly and can roll over starting in 2025–2026.
Approved Uses for ESA Funds
The Arkansas Children’s Educational Freedom Account is a tuition-first program, but it supports a wide range of educational expenses:
- Private school tuition and fees
- Supplies, books, and curriculum
- Tutoring and educational therapies
- Transportation (up to 25% of funds)
- Uniforms, exams, testing prep
- College credit and credentialing fees
- Technology and learning devices
- Career training and field trip costs
- ESA account management fees
Students not enrolled full time in private school must file a Notice of Intent to Homeschool and provide instruction in core academic subjects.
How to Apply
The Arkansas Department of Education manages the ESA program. Families must submit an initial application and confirm whether the student will attend private school or homeschool.
Apply for ESA Funds
Note: Be sure to review the full guidelines and confirm your eligibility before applying.
What to Know Before Applying
- No income limit applies
- Not compatible with full-time public school enrollment
- All expenses must be pre-approved or allowed by the Arkansas Department of Education
- Students may not spend more than 25% of ESA funds on transportation or enrichment activities
- Annual compliance with testing or instruction requirements is required
Empowering Arkansas Families with Flexible Learning
At American Virtual Academy, we support Arkansas families seeking more control and clarity in their child’s education. Our accredited online program is ESA-compatible, flexible, and built for real family needs.
Explore American Virtual Academy Courses