Education Freedom Scholarship

Tennessee’s Education Freedom Scholarship program gives 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:
The scholarship amount for the 2025-26 school year is $7,295.
Who Can Apply:
Every K–12 student who is eligible to attend a Tennessee public school. Unlike other choice programs in Tennessee that carry eligibility restrictions, the Education Freedom Scholarship program program is available to all families.
Total Scholarships Available:
In the first year, the Education Freedom Scholarship program provided scholarships for 20,000 students, though demand was much higher. More than 43,000 applications were submitted for scholarships in the 2025-2026 school year.

This year, due to parent demand, Governor Bill Lee is pushing to expand the program, with over 50,000 applications already submitted for the 2026-27 school year.

How It Works:
Families receive scholarship funds to cover tuition, fees, and other approved education expenses at participating private schools.
When can you apply:
For the 2026-27 school year, EFS application window closed on Friday, February 6, 2026. 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

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