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South Carolina Education Scholarship Trust Fund Program

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Summary

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The South Carolina Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF) is a state-funded program that provides $7,500 scholarships to eligible K–12 students. These funds can be used for various educational expenses, including:

  • Private school tuition

  • Tutoring services

  • Educational therapies

  • Curriculum and instructional materials

  • Technology and devices for educational purposes

  • Fees for standardized tests and college admissions exams

The program aims to offer families greater flexibility in choosing educational options that best meet their children’s needs.

The 2025-2026 student application has now closed as we have reached our legal cap.

 

 

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Frequently Asked Question

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How are scholarships funded?

Scholarship accounts are funded through an annual appropriation of the South Carolina General Assembly. They are worth $6,000 per eligible student, per school year and will be awarded, based upon available funding from the General Assembly, as follows:

  • School Year 2024-2025 – up to 5,000 scholarships/year
  • School Year 2025-2026 – up to 10,000 scholarships/year
  • School Year 2026-2027 and subsequent school years – up to 15,000 scholarships/year

 

When and how may a parent or legal guardian apply for a scholarship for their student?

The 2025-2026 student application has now closed as we have reached our legal cap. The SC Department of Education will create, announce, and publicize a standard application process.

Who do I contact with questions?

You can contact the South Carolina department of Education by Phone: 803-734-8500 or by Email: [email protected]

How much money will eligible families be awarded?

The scholarships are $7,500 per student, per school year.

Scientific Definition

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The Education Scholarship Trust Fund is funded by the state of South Carolina. Parents can apply for the program, and if they’re accepted, they receive a certain amount of money each year for their child’s education expenses. Each student is eligible for $7,500 per school year.

Application Process and Deadlines

  • Application Period: The general application window for the 2025–26 school year opened on May 19, 2025, following the restoration of the program, it is currently closed due to legal cap .

  • Rolling Admissions: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, allowing families to apply at any time during the year.

  • Application Platform: The South Carolina Department of Education administers the program and has contracted with ClassWallet to manage the distribution of scholarship funds to participating families .

Who is Eligible to Receive Funds?

As of the 2025–26 school year, the ESTF program has expanded its eligibility criteria:

  • Income Eligibility: Families with a household income up to 300% of the federal poverty level are eligible for the 2025–26 school year. This threshold increases to 500% of the federal poverty level in subsequent years, making approximately 85% of South Carolina children eligible .

  • Priority Groups: If the number of applicants exceeds available scholarships, priority is given to:

    • Returning ESTF recipients

    • Siblings of current participants

    • Students with disabilities

    • Students from households meeting the income eligibility criteria