For many parents, the financial burden of a private school tuition is the number one factor that holds them back from pursuing a private school education for their child. But did you know that the State of North Carolina offers two grant programs to assist with tuition and fees at many private schools?
The NC Opportunity Scholarship
The Opportunity Scholarship helps to cover the cost of tuition and fees, up to $7,468, depending on your family’s size and income. Check here to find out how much your family would qualify for.
Eligibility
Aside from income qualifications, you must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the scholarship:
- At least 5 years old by August 31 or at least 4 years old by April 16 and approved for Kindergarten according to State guidelines
- Lives in North Carolina
- Has not graduated from high school
- Has not enrolled in a post-secondary institution full-time
How does the scholarship work?
NCSEAA sends money directly to the school where your child is enrolling. Because of this, the private school must be enrolled in the program. To check if the school you are considering accepts the funds, look here.
There are a handful of schools in the Triangle area that do not accept the scholarship. The program does come with some requirements for schools such as annual standardized testing beginning in 3rd grade, submitting of financial data, a host of reporting requirements.
When Do I Apply?
The window for scholarship applications is open from February 1st-March 1st.
ESA+ Funds
North Carolina’s Education Student Accounts (ESA+) program is available to meet the needs of students with disabilities. Funds may be used to pay tuition and fees for eligible private schools, and for expenses such as speech therapy, tutoring services, and educational technology.
- $9,000 annual award; students with certain designated disabilities may be eligible to receive $17,000 a year
- Families may choose from a variety of learning environments, including private schools, home schools, or co-enrollment
ESA+ Eligibiity
Eligibility Requirements for Base Award
•Is a child with a disability who is eligible for special education, as documented by a North Carolina public school IEP Eligibility Determination
•At least 5 years old by August 31 or at least 4 by April 16 and approved for kindergarten according to State guidelines
•Lives in North Carolina
•Has not graduated from high school
•Has not enrolled in a post-secondary institution full- time
Additional Eligibility Requirements for Higher Award Students who meet the criteria outlined above and have one of the following designated as the primary or secondary disability on the IEP Eligibility Determination may be eligible for a higher scholarship award .
• Autism
• Hearing Impairment
• Moderate or Severe Intellectual Disability
• Orthopedic Impairment
• Visual Impairment
How Do I Get The Funds?
There are 2 options: your school may be a Direct Payment School, where the funds from the ESA+ program are transferred directly to the school where your child is enrolled, or if your child attends a Reimbursement School, you will upload a tuition receipt and the family will be reimbursed.
Timeline for Application
Applications typically open February 1, of each year. The priority deadline is March 1. The application may remain open after March 1, subject to the availability of funds.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re curious about NC private schools and their requirements, check out this blog post. Or Contact Us today so we can help you find a great school for your child!