URGENT NEWS: Read about the SC Supreme Court’s decision about the ESTF program here!

Is My Child Eligible for an SC ESA?

Boy standing near bookshelf

To be eligible this year, students must meet all the following:

  • ☑Be a resident of South Carolina;
  • ☑Have attended a South Carolina public school during the 2023-24 school year, OR be entering kindergarten in fall 2024;
  • ☑ Have a household income that does not exceed 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. See right:

This income threshold will change in the coming years. For 2025-26, eligible household income is 300% of the federal poverty guidelines. For 2026-27 and beyond, eligible household income is 400% of the federal poverty guidelines.

How It Works:

1. DETERMINE YOUR ELIGIBILITY

Using the criteria above, determine if your student is eligible to receive a ESTF scholarship for the 2024-25 school year. Reach out if you have questions or check out our FAQs page if you aren’t sure.

 

2. FILL OUT THE APPLICATION

Families can apply for these $6,000 scholarships January 15 – March 15 through the ClassWallet portal. Spots are limited, so apply soon! You will need the following documents to apply:

– Proof of guardianship (tax return with dependents listed, birth certificate, etc.)

– Proof of income (2022 or 2023 tax return documentation. If they don’t file taxes, they’ll need to provide information on income.)

– Proof of residency (driver’s license or state-issued ID, utility bill, etc.)

You should hear back about your application status via email within 14 days of applying.

 

3. PICK A PROVIDER

Private schools and other education service providers are currently applying to accept ESTF funds. You can log into your ClassWallet portal to see the most up-to-date list of provider options, or click here to see the list of providers as of 2/15/2024. If there is a school in your community you wish to see on the list, call them and ask them to get signed up as an education service provider! Once you are accepted to the program, you will receive an email from ClassWallet with more information and trainings on how to use your education scholarship account.

 

4. TRANSFER FUNDS

Once you are approved and pick your education service provider, you can direct payments from your education scholarship account to make payments and purchases for your child’s education. Funds will be transferred directly to your education provider on a quarterly basis for the 2024-25 school year.

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