The FES-UA scholarship is open to Florida students from ages 3 through 12th grade, or up to age 22, with qualifying disabilities. This includes diagnosed conditions by either a physician or per a current public school Individual Educational Plan (IEP). The list encompasses Autism Spectrum (ASD) Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention- Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Specific Learning Disability (SLD) and Physical Disorders as well as being a high-risk child with developmental delays. Students with 504 plans may be eligible, but a separate diagnosis documented by a medical professional may be required.
Eligibility for the Florida Tax Credit (FTC) is an income based scholarship; however, income restrictions have been expanded over the last few years. Priority for receiving scholarships is given to students from low-income families (those meeting 185% of the federal poverty level or below) and students in foster care or out-of-home care.
Any student eligible to enroll in a public school can receive funding to attend a participating private school only. Previously, there were income restrictions, but recent legislation has eliminated those limitations, offering parents Universal Choice. This scholarship opens up tuition assistance with multiple pathways.
Previously, students who qualified for the Hope scholarship, available for Florida students who have experienced bullying, violence, or other qualifying incidents at a public school, may now receive funding through the FES:EO. Incidents can include battery, harassment, kidnapping, or threats. The student must have reported the incident and be enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade to be eligible. The scholarship allows them to transfer to another public school with capacity or attend an approved private school.
