Application process launches Jan. 1 for Education Savings Account program

CHEYENNE (WNE) — The first phase of the Wyoming Education Savings Account (ESA) family application will go live on Jan. 1.

At that time, applicants will fill out basic information that will save their place in line. This is a first-come, first-served program, and funds are limited, so applicants will want to do the phase one online application as soon as possible. Watch the Pre-Application Overview at tinyurl.com/ wyo-esa-overview to help you prepare. No documentation will be required for this first step. Applicants will be notified by email to confirm that their online application has been received.

Phase two of the process will begin in April. Applicants will receive instructions via email to submit the necessary documentation to verify eligibility. Those who plan to apply can begin gathering their child’s birth certificate or other proof of age, financial records and proof of residency. Applicants will be notified via email about the status of their online application along with further instructions. ESA funds will be available for use in July.

The ESA program, established by the Wyoming Education Savings Account Act, was signed into law March 21. It is designed to empower families by providing them with greater educational choices for their children in pre-K through grade 12. Eligible students will receive $6,000 annually, beginning in the 2025-26 school year, for various educational expenses, including private school tuition, curriculum, tutoring, extracurricular activities and other approved education-related costs.

Families with household incomes below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines qualify for these scholarships.

This story was published on December 21, 2024.