Education Scholarship Trust Fund Program
Education Savings Account in South Carolina
About This Program
South Carolina's Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF) provides $7,500 ESAs for eligible K-12 students. Created in 2023 and launched in 2024, the program covers tuition, textbooks, tutoring, technology, testing fees, educational therapies, transportation (up to $3,000), uniforms, and other DOE-approved expenses. Income limits phasing up from 300% to 500% FPL, with enrollment caps of 10,000 (2025-26) rising to at least 15,000 (2026-27).
Eligibility Requirements
2025-26: Income limit of 300% FPL ($96,450 for family of four), capped at 10,000 participants. 2026-27: Income limit increases to 500% FPL ($160,750 for family of four), cap rises to at least 15,000 participants. Students must be at least age 5 by September 1 and have not graduated or reached age 22. 58% of students eligible statewide. Prior public school attendance not required.
Funding Details
Funding mechanism: State trust fund appropriation
Approved Expenses
How to Apply
Apply through the South Carolina Department of Education. The Education Scholarship Trust Fund provides scholarships for students with qualifying disabilities. Students must have an IEP or 504 plan. Contact the SC Department of Education for application procedures, eligible schools, and current deadlines.
Other Programs in South Carolina
Disclaimer: This tool provides estimates based on publicly available program data. Always verify eligibility directly with your state's program administrator. Program rules, funding amounts, and application deadlines may change.