Ohio Cleveland 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 Ohio Cleveland Scholarship provides educational choices for children in kindergarten through 12th grade who reside in the Cleveland Municipal School District the opportunity to attend private school.
Why this matters to families in Ohio:
The Cleveland Scholarship program allows parents to select a private school that better matches their child’s needs, interests, or learning style. It creates a meaningful choice for families in the Cleveland Municipal School District who want alternatives to their local public school.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
Voucher
The maximum Cleveland Scholarship amounts are currently:
- Grades K-8: $6,166
- High school: $8,408
The scholarship will pay up to the designated amount, or the amount of the school’s tuition, if less.
Families qualifying for low-income status (at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) with K-8 students do not pay tuition not covered by the scholarship. Families with students in grades 9-12 must cover any tuition not covered by the scholarship.
The program’s annual funding allocation from the state limits the number of scholarships.
Who is eligible for this program?
Students who currently reside in the Cleveland Municipal School District, and will be in grades K-12 for the next school year are eligible for this program.
To confirm your child is eligible for this scholarship or any other Ohio educational scholarship program, use the School Choice Ohio site.
How can families use the funds?
The scholarship can only be used to pay tuition. Parents and/or guardians may have to pay registration fees, material fees and other similar types of fees.
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of the Cleveland Municipal School District.
- Educational Status: Students in K-12 grades for the next school year.
- School Requirements: Families can use funds at eligible private schools that are registered to participate in the Cleveland Scholarship Program.
- Application Window: Refer to the Cleveland Scholarship page on the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce site for deadlines.
How do families apply?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure the student meets the residency requirements. Review the How to Apply for a Cleveland Scholarship on the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce site. You can find additional resources on the Cleveland Scholarship Resources page.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including proof of income and residency. Remember to set up an account on the Parent Portal site.
- Choose an Eligible Provider: Select an eligible participating provider (a participating private school) by selecting Cleveland Scholarship from the left hand menu. Complete the private school’s regular admission process and confirm they have accepted your child.
- Complete the Application: Once your child is accepted by the school, the school can submit a scholarship application on your child’s behalf. You will need to send your income verification form and copies of supporting documents to the Ohio Department of Education (either online or through the mail).
Where can families learn more?
For other Ohio School Choice Programs: Refer to our Ohio State Summary.