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Family Empowerment Scholarship Florida

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Summary

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Florida’s Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES) is one of the largest education savings account (ESA) programs in the country, now offering universal eligibility for all K–12 students. Whether you’re seeking private school tuition help, specialized supports, or flexible education funding, the program can open doors for your child’s learning journey.

Frequently Asked Question

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How do I purchase Goally with my ESA scholarship funds?

Log into your MyScholarShop Account. Search for Goally, then pick out your tablet! Then submit your order.

How can I apply for the Family Empowerment Scholarship in Florida?

Apply here! You’ll need proof of your child’s age, diagnosis, and residency to Step Up For Students. Once approved, funds go into an ESA.

What is Step Up for Students and how are they involved in Florida's ESA programs?

Step Up For Students is a nonprofit organization in Florida that administers several scholarship programs, including the Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES). The organization plays a key role in the implementation and distribution of funds for the Family Empowerment Scholarship in the state.

Is there a handbook?

Yes! You can download Step Up for Student’s guide HERE.

Can you buy a product outside of MyScholarShop and get reimbursed?

You can buy services and products through MyScholarShop without paying upfront. You can also use other providers by paying first and then claiming reimbursement.

Scientific Definition

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Funding is based on Florida’s Education Finance Plan (FEFP), varying by grade level, county, and student needs.
• Covers 100% of the unweighted base student allocation plus applicable categorical funds.
• FES–UA awards are higher to account for specialized services.
• Funds are deposited quarterly into an ESA (monthly disbursements planned in upcoming years).
• Maximum account balance: $50,000 per student, with rollover allowed year to year.

Video Explanation

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How do I order Goally with my Step Up for Students ESA funds?

Goally is now an approved vendor for Florida Step Up for Students families. This means you can use your Family Empowerment Scholarship funds to buy a Goally tablet. Just follow these steps:

  1. Apply for the scholarship through Step Up for Students
  2. Log into your MyScholarShop Account
  3. Search for “Goally”
  4. Place an order with your preferred tablet type
  5. Reach out to [email protected] with any questions!

For more detailed ordering instructions check out our post here.

Who is Eligible to Receive Funds?

Universal eligibility: All K–12 students in Florida can apply, regardless of income, prior school enrollment, or background.

Two scholarship types:

FES–EO (Educational Options) for private school choice.
FES–UA (Unique Abilities) for students with specific disabilities.

Priority for FES–UA goes to:
• Military dependents
• Foster or adopted children
• Siblings of current recipients
• Students on the prior year’s waitlist
• Students no longer need to attend public school before applying.