Financial Assistance for Education
Start With Fit
Cost matters, but so does fit.
Many families rule out school options before they fully understand what financial assistance may be available. North Carolina offers scholarship programs that may help eligible families access educational settings and supports that better fit their child’s needs.
Before focusing on price, focus on fit. If you are still comparing school settings, visit our Educational Pathways page first.
ESA+
Education Savings Account Plus Program
North Carolina’s Education Savings Account Plus Program provides scholarship funds to help families pay for education and services for children with disabilities.
Families may be able to use funds for approved expenses such as private school tuition, educational therapy, tutoring, curriculum, educational technology, and other eligible supports. Rules can change, so families should always review the official program guidance before making decisions.
Visit the official ESA+ Program site →Opportunity Scholarship
Helping families access participating private schools
The Opportunity Scholarship Program helps eligible North Carolina students attend participating private schools. Unlike ESA+, this program is not specifically limited to students with disabilities.
Some families may explore the Opportunity Scholarship by itself. Others may review whether their child may qualify for both programs. Because rules, award amounts, application windows, and participating schools can change, families should use the official North Carolina scholarship website as the source of truth.
Visit the official Opportunity Scholarship site →Next Step
Use funding to support the decision, not drive it.
If you are still deciding between public school, charter school, private school, homeschool, or specialized programs, start with our Educational Pathways page. Or, explore the Private (Pre)Schools page for educational settings that specifically support children with autism and learning differences.
