Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts
We do not administer or manage any programs. For help or official support, visit the state’s program website. Program information verified using official state information.
How does this program work?
The Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA), established in 2011, is a comprehensive school choice initiative that provides eligible children with funding for private school tuition, homeschool education, tutoring, materials, supplies, or other approved educational services.
Why this matters to families in Arizona:
Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts give parents the ability to select a learning environment that is a better fit for their child’s academic and personal needs. It ensures families are not limited by their assigned public school when that setting is not working for their child.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
ESA
Amounts are set each year by the state. Students with disabilities and existing IEPs, METs, or 504 plans are eligible for additional funding. For more information, refer to the ESA Funding section of the Arizona Department of Education.
Approximate funding amounts:
- Funding Amount Kindergarten: $4,000.00
- Funding Amount 1st to 12th grade: $7,000.00
Who is eligible for this program?
Every Arizona student is eligible to receive an Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account.
How can families use the funds?
Under the Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts, allowable expenses include tuition at private or alternative schools, online education programs, textbooks, curriculum materials, tutoring services, standardized test fees, and educational therapies. Parents manage the funds using ClassWallet and receive equal quarterly deposits into their accounts.
Provided a renewal contract is signed, any funds remaining at the end of the school year will roll over. Funds remaining in the account after graduation can be used for college expenses.
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Arizona.
- Educational Status: Students entering K-12 grades who are either: starting school in Arizona, were previously enrolled in an Arizona public school, or are current recipients.
- Application Requirements: Parents must sign an agreement outlining program and educational requirements.
- Educational Requirements: Students must meet specific educational benchmarks to continue receiving support.
- Expense Reporting: The program conducts regular financial audits to ensure appropriate fund usage. Families must submit periodic expense reports to maintain accountability.
How do families apply?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your child meets the eligibility requirements for the Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts as outlined on the Arizona Department of Education site.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including proof of residency, child’s birth certificate, and eligibility proof. Also, a child who has an IEP, MET, 504 Plan, or an IEEE, will need to provide additional documentation during the application process.
- Complete the Application: Follow the application process on the Arizona Department of Education site.
- Submit: Review and submit the application along with any necessary documentation.
- Await confirmation of application receipt and subsequent approval notification.
- Upon approval, follow the provided instructions to set up your ESA account and begin allocating funds towards eligible educational expenses.
Where can families learn more?
For other Arizona School Choice Programs: Refer to our Arizona State Summary.