top of page
Search

Understanding the Step Up for Students Scholarship



Written By: Tania Villalón Rivera, Parent Engagement Coordinator, UCP Charter Schools


What Every Family Should Know


If you've heard other parents talking about the Step Up for Students Scholarship but aren't quite sure how it works, you're not alone! Florida offers several scholarship programs to help families choose the educational setting that best meets their child's needs. Whether your child attends a private school, a public charter school, a home education program, or an eligible virtual school, understanding your scholarship options can help you make informed decisions.


What Is Step Up for Students?


Step Up for Students is a nonprofit organization that helps administer several of Florida's state-funded scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to give families more educational choices and provide funding that can be used for tuition, instructional materials, therapies, educational services, and other approved learning expenses, depending on the scholarship program.


Many Florida families qualify for one of these scholarships, and applications are submitted directly through the Step Up for Students website.


Which Scholarship Might Be Right for My Child?


Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO)


This scholarship is available to most Florida K–12 students, regardless of household income. Families can use the funds for approved educational expenses, including private school tuition or educational materials for students participating in approved educational programs.


Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA)


Designed for students with qualifying disabilities, this scholarship provides funding that families can use for a variety of educational needs, including therapies, curriculum, technology, specialized services, and other approved expenses.


Personalized Education Program (PEP)

The Personalized Education Program is designed for families who choose to direct their child's education through an education savings account while participating in approved learning activities. It offers flexibility while providing funding for eligible educational expenses.


Does My Child Qualify?


Many Florida students are eligible for one of these scholarship programs. Eligibility depends on factors such as residency, enrollment status, and the specific scholarship requirements. If you're unsure which scholarship fits your family, the Step Up for Students website offers a helpful eligibility tool to guide you through the process.


Important Reminders


✔️ Apply early. Scholarship funding is awarded each school year, and it's best to complete your application as soon as possible.

✔️ Renew annually. Most scholarships require families to submit a renewal application each year.

✔️ Keep your information updated. Be sure your contact information and required documentation remain current to avoid delays.

✔️ Save your receipts. Depending on your scholarship, you may need to document approved purchases or services.


How Can These Scholarships Help?


Every family's educational journey looks different. These scholarships can help reduce financial barriers while giving families greater flexibility to choose the educational path that best supports their child's learning needs.


Scholarship funds may be used for approved expenses such as:

  • Curriculum and instructional materials

  • Technology and educational software

  • Educational supplies

  • Approved tutoring services

  • Therapies and specialized services (for eligible programs)

  • Tuition and fees at participating schools (when applicable)


The specific approved uses depend on the scholarship your child receives.


We're Here to Help!


Navigating scholarships can feel overwhelming at first, but you don't have to do it alone. Our enrollment team is happy to answer questions, guide you toward helpful resources, and support you throughout the enrollment process.


If you're considering enrollment or have questions about how a scholarship works, please don't hesitate to reach out.


Helpful Resources


Visit their website to:

  • Learn about each scholarship program

  • Check eligibility

  • Apply or renew your scholarship

  • Find answers to frequently asked questions


Together, we can help ensure every child has access to the educational opportunities that best meet their unique needs.

Comments

bottom of page