Arkansas Educational Freedom Accounts
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?
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.
Why this matters to families in Arkansas:
Arkansas Educational Freedom Accounts expand access to private school and other educational alternative options so parents can select the learning environment that best matches their child’s needs. It gives families more control over their child’s education path.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
ESA
Funding Amount: ~$6800.00
The state sets the amount each year. For the current school year amount, visit the Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education Information for Families page.
Who is eligible for this program?
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
How can families use the 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.
What are the program rules and 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.
How do families apply?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your child meets the eligibility requirements for the current school year by checking the Arkansas Department of Education site.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including, proof of residency and child’s eligibility.
- 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.
- Submit: Review and submit the application along with any necessary documentation.
- Upon approval, follow the provided instructions to set up your ESA account and begin allocating funds towards eligible educational expenses.
- Additional and re-certification information: Please refer to the Information for Families page on the Arkansas Department of Education site.
Where can families learn more?
For other Arkansas School Choice Programs: Refer to our Arkansas State Summary.