Indiana Education Scholarship Account
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 Indiana Education Scholarship Account (ESA) is an annual education savings account designed to support children with special needs. This program allows families to customize their child’s educational experience by using funds for tuition, therapies, individual classes, testing fees, and transportation. Students enrolled in this program receive 90% of their state education dollars. All special education dollars are in a government-authorized scholarship account similar to a Health Savings Account.
The program aims to provide children with special needs access to tailored educational environments that meet their unique learning requirements.
Why this matters to families in Indiana:
Some students require specialized services or therapies that are easier to access in a private school environment. This Indiana Education Scholarship Account program helps families choose a school or additional services that can better support their child’s health and well-being.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
ESA
Students participating in the Indiana Education Scholarship Account (ESA) receive funding equivalent to 90% of what a student would receive in a public school, based on the student’s school district of residence and special needs status. The amount is calculated each year and families having the flexibility to roll over up to $1,000 of unused funds each school year.
ESA recipients cannot combine funding with the Indiana Choice Scholarship but can combine it with the School Scholarship Tax Credit (find details of this program on the Indiana Department of Education).
Who is eligible for this program?
To be eligible for the Indiana Education Scholarship Account (ESA), students must:
- legally reside in Indiana
- be between the ages of 5 and 22
- have an active participation in an Individualized Education Program (IEP), service plan (SP), or Choice Special Education Plan (CSEP)
Family income must not exceed 400% of the Federal Free or Reduced School Meals limit.
Children who meet these requirements can enroll and renew annually in the program until they graduate or turn 22 years old.
How can families use the funds?
Families can use funds from the Indiana Education Scholarship Account (ESA) for various educational expenses, including:
- private school tuition and fees testing fees
- special needs services and therapies
- individual classes
- school-sponsored extracurricular activities
- occupational therapy
- transportation services up to $750 annually
Payments for eligible expenses are made directly from the ESA account once approved by an ESA account specialist to the participating entity. The family will be responsible for any costs that are beyond ESA funds and/or not eligible for payment from ESA funds.
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Income Level: Family income not exceeding 400% of the Federal Free or Reduced School Meals limit.
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Indiana.
- Educational Status: Student is between the ages of 5 and 22 as of August 1 each school year and has an active participation in an Individualized Education Program (IEP), service plan (SP), or Choice Special Education Plan (CSEP).
- School Requirements: Funds can be used at eligible private schools that meet state standards.
- Testing Requirements: State test assessments.
How do families apply?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your child meets the age, family income, residency and special needs criteria by reviewing the information on the Indiana Department of Education site.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including a copy of the child’s birth certificate, proof of primary and permanent residency in Indiana , a copy of the child’s IEP, SP, and/or CSEP, and income verification.
- Choose Eligible Participating Entities: Select a private school or service providers that participate in the program.
- Complete the Application: Follow the application process on the Indiana Treasurer of State during the open enrollment period.
- Submit: Review and submit the application along with any necessary documentation, and await approval.
Where can families learn more?
For other Indiana School Choice Programs: Refer to our Indiana State Summary.