Virginia School Choice
Virginia supports limited school choice through a tax-credit scholarship program and various public school options. While the state does not offer vouchers or ESAs, families can access private school funding through business-donated scholarships. Public choices include charter schools, Governor’s Schools, magnet programs, and open enrollment, giving families flexibility without redirecting public education funds.
Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credit Program
Virginia’s Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credit (EISTC) program awards tax credits to businesses that donate to scholarship-granting organizations. These organizations provide scholarships to eligible students—often targeting low-income families or those in underperforming districts—for tuition at participating private schools or approved pre-K programs. The program operates through private donations rather than direct state appropriations.
Charter Schools
Virginia allows charter schools to operate with approval from local school boards or the state Board of Education. These schools are tuition-free and publicly funded. They provide alternative learning environments while remaining accountable to state academic standards. Although few in number, charter schools give families additional public education choices across the state.
Governor’s Schools & Magnet Programs
Virginia supports selective Governor’s Schools, which specialize in academic enrichment for gifted students. Additionally, many districts manage theme-based or magnet programs—focused on STEM, the arts, international studies, and more—to attract students across district lines.
Open Enrollment & Virtual Learning
Most districts allow open enrollment, enabling students to attend public schools outside their zone if space permits. Families can also access state-supported virtual learning through the Virtual Virginia platform and other approved online options offered by local districts.