Tennessee Education Savings Account Program
We do not administer or manage any programs. For help, visit the official program website.
Summary
The Tennessee Education Savings Account (ESA) Program provides eligible students with state funds to pay for approved educational expenses, including nonpublic school tuition, tutoring, online courses, and other educational resources. This program aims to increase educational options and customize learning for students in the following Tennessee school districts: Achievement School District, Hamilton County Schools, Memphis-Shelby County Schools, and Metro Nashville Public Schools.
Student Funding
Funding Type: Education Savings Account (ESA)
School Year Maximum ESA Amount: Approximately $8,000 per student
Each year, the state calculates the exact amount using the Basic Education Program (BEP) funding formula, which considers the student’s county and grade level.
There is an initial enrollment cap of 5,000 students, with potential increases in future years based on demand.
Student Eligibility
In order for a student to qualify for the Tennessee ESA Program, the student must reside in:
- Memphis-Shelby County
- Metro Nashville
- Hamilton Count
- Or, the student was in a school in the former Achievement School District
The student must have attended a Tennessee public school during the previous school year. Or, the student is newly eligible to enroll in a Tennessee public school. The family must also meet specific income requirements of household income below 200% of the federal free lunch program guidelines. Refer to the Family Handbook for details on income eligibility (scroll down the page for the section).
Rules & Requirements
- Income Level: Household income below 200% of the federal free lunch program guidelines. Refer to the Family Handbook for details on income eligibility (scroll down the page for the section).
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Tennessee and the following school districts: Achievement School District, Hamilton County Schools, Memphis-Shelby County Schools, and Metro Nashville Public Schools.
- Educational Status: Students who were enrolled in a K-12 public school during the previous school year, or are current ESA recipients. Students also qualify if they are enrolling in a public school for the first time. For example, the student is starting Kindergarten or moving to Tennessee. The student must reside in the eligible school districts.
- School Requirements: Funds can be used at eligible nonpublic schools that meet state standards (scroll to “Participating ESA Schools” section).
- Application Window: The state will announce its two open enrollment windows each year (in the fall and in the winter). Timelines for the Tennessee ESA Program will be posted on the ESA site.
- Other Tennessee School Choice Programs: Students cannot participate in the Education Savings Account (ESA) Program and the Individualized Education Account (IEA) Program or the Freedom Education Scholarship (EFS). One program must be selected.
Using Your Funds
Families can use funds at a participating nonpublic school, including:
- tuition and other fees
- required school uniforms required textbooks
Families can also use funds at:
- participating nonpublic or non-participating schools for tuition and fees for approved educational summer education programs specialized after-school education programs
- tutoring services which meet department requirements transportation to and from a participating non-public school or education provider
- educational therapies or services for participating students provided by a department-approved licensed therapist
- tuition, fees, and textbooks at an eligible accredited postsecondary institution
- computer hardware, technological devices, or other department-approved technology fees
The e-Wallet portal processes the funds provided through the ESA. All funds used must obtain pre-approval for the expense with submitting expense amounts and expense documentation through the e-Wallet portal. Expenses in excess of the maximum ESA amount are the responsibility of the parent.
Refer to the Family Handbook section on the Families & Students site (scroll down the page) for additional detailed information on allowable uses of the ESA funds, how the expense approval and payments are made, and other requirements to meet once awarded the ESA.
How to Apply
- Check Eligibility: Ensure the student meets the income, residency and educational requirements.
- Choose an Eligible School: Select an eligible nonpublic school that participates in the program and ensure your child can be enrolled by following the school’s application process.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including proof of income, residency, and other records as they pertain to your child (e.g., transcripts from prior schools, IEP, and guardianship).
- Complete the Application: Follow the application process on the ESA site during the open enrollment period.
- Submit: Review and submit the application along with any necessary documentation.
- Approval: Follow instructions for onboarding to the program based on information from the Tennessee Department of Education.
For other Tennessee School Choice Programs: Refer to our Tennessee State Summary.