Education decisions shape a child’s future, and for many families in Florida, the Step Up Scholarship has become one of the most powerful tools for accessing better educational opportunities.

Whether you’re considering private school, homeschooling support, or specialized education services for a child with unique abilities, this complete 2026 guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Step Up Scholarship in a clear, practical, and easy-to-follow format.

Let’s walk through it step by step.

What Is the Step Up Scholarship?

The Step Up Scholarship refers to a group of state-funded scholarship programs administered by Step Up For Students, a Florida-approved nonprofit organization that helps families access education options beyond traditional public schools.

The Step Up Scholarship supports:

• Private school tuition

• Transportation assistance

• Homeschooling resources

• Therapy and specialized services for students with unique abilities

These scholarships are funded through Florida’s school choice initiatives and operate under guidelines set by the Florida Department of Education.

You can review official program information directly

Why the Step Up Scholarship Matters in 2026

In 2026, education flexibility is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity.

Families want:

• Smaller class sizes

• Faith-based education options

• Specialized learning support

• Safer school environments

• Customized instruction

The Step Up Scholarship gives parents control. Instead of being restricted by geographic school zones, families can choose schools that align with their values and their child’s needs.

With recent expansions to Florida’s school choice laws, eligibility has broadened significantly, making the Step Up Scholarship accessible to more families than ever before.

Step Up Scholarship Types Explained

The Step Up Scholarship includes multiple scholarship pathways. Understanding them is crucial before applying.

Below is a simplified comparison table for clarity:

The most commonly used options under the Step Up Scholarship umbrella are:

• Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES)

• Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC)

Each has slightly different requirements and funding levels.

Step Up Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility depends on the scholarship type, but general requirements include:

Basic Step Up Scholarship Eligibility

• Student must be a Florida resident

• Must be eligible to enroll in a Florida public school

• Must be entering K–12

• Must not be enrolled full-time in public school (for private tracks)

For income-based programs:

• Household income may determine priority

• Lower-income families often receive earlier funding consideration

For the Unique Abilities track (FES-UA):

• Student must have a qualifying diagnosis

• Supporting documentation is required

Because rules can change yearly, always verify eligibility through the official Step Up portal before applying.

Step Up Scholarship Funding Amounts

One of the most searched questions about the Step Up Scholarship is: How much money can families receive?

Funding varies based on:

• Grade level

• County of residence

• Scholarship category

On average, families may receive:

• $7,000 – $8,500+ per year for private school tuition

• Up to $10,000+ per year for students with unique abilities

• Flexible funding for homeschool curriculum and services under PEP

For many families, the Step Up Scholarship covers a significant portion — and sometimes all — of private school tuition costs.

Step Up Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step)

Applying for the Step Up Scholarship is straightforward if you prepare properly.

Here’s how to do it successfully:

1. Create a Parent Account

Visit the Step Up For Students website and register.

2. Select the Correct Step Up Scholarship

Choose the scholarship category that fits your child:

• FTC

• FES-EO

• FES-UA

• PEP

3. Upload Required Documents

Common documents include:

• Proof of Florida residency

• Birth certificate

• Income verification (if applicable)

• Diagnosis documentation (for FES-UA)

4. Submit Application Early

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

5. Receive Award & Choose School

Once approved:

• Select a participating private school

• Coordinate tuition payment through the scholarship portal

Step Up Scholarship Deadlines You Shouldn’t Miss

While official deadlines vary each year, here’s what you should know:

• Applications usually open early in the calendar year

• Renewing families receive priority

• Funding is limited and distributed in waves

Pro Tip: Apply as soon as the portal opens. Waiting reduces your chances of early approval.

Step Up Scholarship vs Public School: A Clear Comparison

Let’s compare both systems side-by-side:

The Step Up Scholarship gives families greater educational flexibility and personalization.

Benefits of the Step Up Scholarship

Families consistently report these benefits:

Financial Relief

Reduces or eliminates private school tuition burden.

Educational Freedom

Parents choose schools aligned with values and academic goals.

Specialized Support

Therapies and individualized services available.

Increased Student Confidence

Children often thrive in environments tailored to their needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for the Step Up Scholarship

Avoid these common errors:

• Waiting until the last minute

• Uploading incomplete or blurry documents

• Selecting the wrong scholarship track

• Failing to confirm school participation

Preparation prevents delays.

Expert Tips to Secure Your Step Up Scholarship

To maximize approval chances:

• Apply immediately when applications open

• Keep digital copies of all required documents

• Double-check income calculations

• Monitor email notifications closely

• Follow up promptly if additional documentation is requested

Being organized dramatically improves success rates.

Is the Step Up Scholarship Legit?

Yes. The Step Up Scholarship programs are state-authorized and administered by Step Up For Students under Florida law.

Hundreds of thousands of Florida students have benefited from this program.

The Step Up Scholarship isn’t just financial assistance — it’s educational empowerment.

It allows families to:

• Choose better learning environments

• Access private or specialized education

• Relieve financial stress

• Support children with diverse needs

If you’re a Florida parent exploring school choice options in 2026, the Step Up Scholarship may be one of the most valuable opportunities available.

Apply early. Prepare carefully. And take that step forward toward better educational possibilities.