Georgia Special Needs Scholarship
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 Georgia Special Needs Scholarship (GSNS) provides funding for private schools for K-12 children in Georgia with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or most children with a 504 plan.
The scholarship provides the Georgia family the opportunity to select a school that will better address their child’s unique needs.
Why this matters to families in Georgia:
Some children need a learning environment that provides more personalized support than their assigned public school can offer. This Georgia Special Needs Scholarship program helps families find a school that better meets their child’s individual learning or developmental needs.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
Voucher
Annual award amounts are based upon state funds that would be provided to the local school system of residence.
Who is eligible for this program?
To qualify for the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship, the child must attend a Georgia public school for the entire previous school year and receive special education services under an IEP or Section 504 plan. The child’s parent or guardian must live in Georgia for at least one year. If the parent is an active-duty military service member stationed in Georgia within the past year, the one-year residency requirement does not apply.
How can families use the funds?
Families can use the funds from the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship for various purposes related to attending the private school. These purposes include:
- tuition
- fees for student assessment uniforms
- therapies (physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy)
- transportation provided by the participating school, meals
- summer school programs, tutoring
- other authorized materials or services as approved by the George Department of Education
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Georgia for at least one year. The one-year requirement does not apply if the student’s parent is an active-duty military service member stationed in Georgia within the past year.
- Educational Status: A student attends a Georgia public school for the entire previous school year and receives special education services under an IEP or a Section 504 plan.
- School Requirements: Families must select an authorized private school by the state of Georgia. You can find the list on the Georgia Department of Education Parent Resources site.
How do families apply?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your child meets the public school and residency requirements. Use the Special Needs Scholarship Calculator to determine if your child is eligible to receive an award. All students eligible for a scholarship award for the current school year are automatically added to the scholarship calculator based on the requirements set forth in state law.
- Complete the rest of the process: Follow the process on the Georgia Department of Education Parent Resources site, including understanding the program, selecting a private school, filing an intent to file a scholarship application, and other details as outlined.
Where can families learn more?
For other Georgia School Choice Programs: Refer to our Georgia State Summary.