Tennessee Education Savings Account Program
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 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.
Why this matters to families in Tennessee:
The Tennessee Education Savings Account program gives parents in Memphis-Shelby County, Metro Nashville, Hamilton Count, or, the student was in a school in the former Achievement School District, the ability to choose an education setting that is a better fit for their child’s learning needs. It ensures families have access to options beyond their assigned public school.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
ESA
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. To see the most recent amounts, visit the Tennessee Education Savings Account page.
There is an initial enrollment cap of 5,000 students, with potential increases in future years based on demand.
Who is eligible for this program?
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 (click the greater than symbol next to ESA Handbooks).
How can families use the 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 on the ESA site (click the greater than symbol next to ESA Handbooks) 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.
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Income Level: Household income below 200% of the federal free lunch program guidelines. Refer to the Family Handbook for details on income eligibility (click the greater than symbol next to ESA Handbooks).
- 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.
How do families 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.
Where can families learn more?
For other Tennessee School Choice Programs: Refer to our Tennessee State Summary.