Education Freedom Scholarship
Tennessee’s new Education Freedom Scholarships give families the opportunity to choose the best learning environment for their child. Whether that means a private school, specialized program, or another setting outside the traditional public school system, this scholarship makes educational choice possible — and affordable — for thousands of Tennessee families.
Program Overview
Here’s what you need to know about how the Education Freedom Scholarships work:
Scholarship Amount:
About $7,075 per student, annually.
Who Can Apply:
Every K–12 student who is eligible to attend a Tennessee public school.
Total Scholarships Available:
Up to 20,000 students statewide can participate in the first year.
+ 10,000 reserved for students who:
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- Come from lower-income families (300% of the federal poverty level or less),
- Have a disability,
- Or qualify for the current Education Savings Account (ESA) program.
+ 10,000 open to all other eligible students statewide.
How It Works:
Families receive scholarship funds to cover tuition, fees, and other approved education expenses at participating private schools.
When can you apply:
Applications are expected to open May 2025. Stay tuned for an official launch date and additional instructions from the Tennessee Department of Education.
Get Ready to Apply: Your Checklist
Documentation Required for ALL Applicants
- Tennessee Residency (2 documentations of proof required)
- Student’s Proof of U.S. Citizenship (1 proof required) OR Lawful Presence in the U.S. (2 proofs required)
- No more than 13 years in school and entering grades K-12
- Student must be five years old by September 30, 2025
- Proof of enrollment or acceptance at a participating private school
Documentation Required for Qualified Scholarships
To be considered for a qualified scholarship, the application must demonstrate ONE of the following:
- Income levels below 300% of the Federal Free or Reduced-Price Lunch Guidelines OR Eligibility for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program OR Eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Individualized Education Account (IEA) Program Eligibility
- Education Savings Account (ESA) Program Eligibility