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Scholarship Information

Opportunity Scholarship

  • The Opportunity Scholarship was created by the North Carolina General Assembly in 2013 to help families access the education that best fits their child’s needs.

  • The program provides annual scholarships that can be used toward Tuition and required fees at an eligible private school.

Who Is Eligible?

  • All North Carolina students in Kindergarten - 12th grade are eligible, regardless of household income.

  • Prior public school enrollment is no longer required. 

  • Recent program updates have expanded access, making the scholarship available to more families than ever before.

Scholarship Amounts

  • Scholarship amounts are based on household income.

  • Awards range from approximately $3,000 to $7,000 per year.

  • Students from lower-income households receive higher award amounts. 

Application Information

  • The 2026 - 2027 school year application opened February 2, 2026.

  • Applications remain open until further notice.

  • The priority application period runs from February 2–March 2.

  • Applications submitted after the priority period are awarded in order of application date, as funds are available.

  • Families will be notified regarding whether an award can be offered.

Important Reminder

  • We encourage all current and prospective families to apply, regardless of income.

Visit the ncseaa site to apply and get more information

Education Student Accounts (ESA+) Program

North Carolina’s Education Student Accounts (ESA+) program supports students with disabilities by providing funds for educational expenses in a learning environment that best meets their needs.

  • Funds may be used for tuition and fees at eligible private schools, as well as approved expenses such as speech therapy, tutoring, and educational technology.  

  • Families may choose from a variety of learning options, including private school, homeschool, or co-enrollment.

  • Eligible students receive a $9,000 award.

  • Students with certain designated disabilities may qualify for an enhanced award of up to $17,000 per year.

  • Eligibility is based on documentation of disability and meeting additional program requirements.

This program gives families flexibility to personalize their child’s education and support their unique learning needs.

Visit the NCSEAA ESA+ site to apply and get more information