Wisconsin Special Needs Scholarship 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 Wisconsin Special Needs Scholarship Program (SNSP) allows eligible students with disabilities to receive state-funded scholarships to attend participating private schools. This program aims to increase access to specialized services for students with special needs outlined in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Services Plan.
Why this matters to families in Wisconsin:
Some children need a learning environment that provides more personalized support than their assigned public school can offer. This program helps families find a school that better meets their child’s individual learning or developmental needs.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
Voucher
The state calculates voucher amounts under the Wisconsin Special Needs Scholarship Program each year. The state then generally announces the amount by the summer before the fall school enrollment period.
Voucher amounts will generally cover the full cost of tuition at participating private schools.
Who is eligible for this program?
Students must have a qualifying Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Services Plan from the state of Wisconsin. The student must also be at least the following age on or before September 1:
- 4 years old for K4
- 5 years old for K5
- 6 years old for grade 1
Further, students may not be 21 as of the date they apply or September 1, whichever is later.
How can families use the funds?
Schools are paid for eligible SNSP students in attendance for two (2) count dates. The count dates are the 3rd Friday in September and the 2nd Friday in January. Schools receive half the annual SNSP payment for eligible SNSP students who meet the attendance requirements for each count date.
In order for a student to be eligible for a SNSP payment, a student must have both of the following by the count date:
- an eligible, accepted Wisconsin Special Needs Scholarship application or transfer request
- an agreement of the services that will be provided by the school signed and dated by the parent/guardian and school
If a student does not meet both requirements for a count date, some schools may choose to charge additional tuition and fees. Contact the private school to determine whether any tuition or fees will be charged.
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Wisconsin.
- Educational Status: Students in grades K-12 with a qualifying Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Services Plan from the state of Wisconsin.
- School Requirements: Funds can be used at eligible private schools that specifically participate in the Wisconsin Special Needs Scholarship Program (SNSP).
- Application Window: Applications can be submitted to SNSP schools for each school year from July 1st to June 30th. The student application, list of SNSP schools, and school special education profiles are available by the end of June for the upcoming school year.
- Other Wisconsin Private School Choice Programs: In addition to the SNSP, Wisconsin also offers Private School Choice Programs (Choice or Choice Program) for Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP), the Racine Parental Choice Program (RPCP) and Wisconsin Parental Choice Program or statewide program (WPCP).
How do families apply?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure the student meets the program requirements. Refer to the SNSP Frequently Asked Questions for Parents on the SNSP site for the requirements and operation of SNSP (click on the link).
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents including your child’s IEP/Services Plan.
- Choose an Eligible School: Select a private school that participates in the program. A list of participating schools will be available by the end of June for the upcoming school year.
- Complete the Application: To apply for the SNSP, you must complete a paper application and submit it directly to the SNSP school you want your child to attend. You can find more information on the SNSP site.
- Submit: Submit the application along with any necessary documentation to the private school of your choice.
- Renewal: Once accepted into the SNSP Program, students are not required to reapply annually. However, SNSP students must provide residency documentation annually to their SNSP school to confirm their current Wisconsin public school district.
Where can families learn more?
For other Wisconsin School Choice Programs: Refer to our Wisconsin State Summary.