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Arkansas Educational Freedom Accounts

We do not administer or manage any programs. For help, visit the official program website.

Summary

Arkansas Educational Freedom Accounts (EFA), initiated by the LEARNS Act in 2023, is a statewide program which aims to offer all K–12 students in Arkansas access to Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) by 2025. The program provides families the opportunity to use funds for alternative educational resources to better align with their children’s unique needs.

Student Funding

Funding Type: Educational Savings Account (ESA)

Funding Amount: ~$6800.00

The state sets the amount each year.

Student Eligibility

All K–12 students in the state are eligible to receive an Arkansas Educational Freedom Account, including:

  • first-time kindergarteners
  • homeschooled children
  • children with disabilities
  • those experiencing homelessness
  • foster children
  • children previously enrolled in the Succeed Scholarship Program
  • children of active-duty military personnel
  • children from F-rated schools or districts requiring intensive support

Rules & Requirements

  • Residency: Applicants must be residents of Arkansas.
  • Educational Status: Students entering K-12 grades who are eligible for the current school year, or are current recipients of the Succeed Scholarship Program.
  • Application Requirements: Parents must sign an agreement outlining program and educational requirements.

Using Your Funds

Arkansas Educational Freedom Account funds can be used towards a wide range of educational costs and include:

  • tuition
  • fees
  • uniforms
  • tutoring
  • curriculum costs transportation
  • technological devices for educational use
  • fees for exams and courses for college credit or career training
  • educational services for children with disabilities

All payments and purchases of tuition and educational expenses must be purchased through ClassWallet. once you are approved for the EFA funds, the Arkansas Department of Education will provide information on how to use ClassWallet.

How to Apply

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your child meets the eligibility requirements for the current school year by checking the Arkansas Department of Education site.
  2. Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including, proof of residency and child’s eligibility.
  3. Complete the Application: Follow the application process on the Arkansas Department of Education site during the open enrollment period. Applications will be considered on a rolling first-come first-serve basis until August 1.  After August 1, applications will be reviewed pending funding availability and scholarship capacity.
  4. Submit: Review and submit the application along with any necessary documentation.
  5. Upon approval, follow the provided instructions to set up your ESA account and begin allocating funds towards eligible educational expenses.
  6. Additional and re-certification information: Please refer to the EFA Family Handbook on the Arkansas Department of Education site.

For other Arkansas School Choice Programs: Refer to our Arkansas State Summary.