Education savings account program application now open for eligible students

(Feb. 2, 2024) - The Tennessee Department of Education announced the 2024-25 school year Education Savings Account (ESA) application is now open for eligible students zoned to attend a Memphis-Shelby County School, Metro-Nashville Public School, Hamilton County School, or a school in the Achievement School District on May 24, 2019. The deadline to submit an application for fall enrollment is August 1, 2024.

The ESA Program provides eligible low-income families access to high-quality, non-public education options to best meet their students’ individual educational needs. ESA funds cover approved education expenses including tuition, fees, and uniforms at approved, participating non-public schools.

“Tennessee students and families deserve access to education options that best meet their students’ individual needs,” said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. “I encourage all eligible families to learn more about this program to provide your students with the best fit for their education experience.”

Parents of participating ESA students shared their support for the program in a parent satisfaction survey where 99% either agreed or strongly agreed that they were satisfied with the ESA program overall. 
 
The Tennessee Education Savings Account (ESA) Program was enacted on May 24, 2019, and is guided by state law, Tenn. Code Ann. 49-6-2601 et al. The ESA program began implementation in the 2022-23 school year and enrolled its first students in August 2022.

Additional requirements students must meet to be eligible are available here. Applications for the 2024-25 school year can be found on the department’s website here. For media inquiries, contact Edu.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.