Tennessee School Choice
School choice in Tennessee gives families a growing set of options to use public or private funding for the learning environment that best fits their child. Tennessee’s three active programs — the new Education Freedom Scholarship (EFS), the existing Education Savings Account (ESA) pilot, and the long-standing Individualized Education Account (IEA) — provide between $7,295 and $23,000+ per student depending on eligibility. Tennessee has also opted into the new federal Education Freedom Tax Credit beginning in 2027, expanding scholarship access through private donations. Families can also choose tuition-free public charter schools.
Tennessee Education Savings Account Program
The Tennessee Education Savings Account (ESA) Program provides eligible students with state funds to pay for approved educational expenses including private school tuition, tutoring, and other educational resources. This school choice program aims to increase educational options and customize learning for students in specific Tennessee school districts.
Tennessee Individualized Education Account Program
The Tennessee Individualized Education Account (IEA) Program offers state funds to eligible students with disabilities to attend approved private schools or homeschool. This program aims to provide customized educational options and services to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities.
Tennessee Education Freedom Scholarship
The Tennessee Education Freedom Scholarship (EFS) provides eligible students with scholarships to pay for approved educational expenditures, including tuition and/or fees at registered Category I, II, or III private schools. The program allows families to find the best school for their children’s needs.
Charter Schools
Tennessee supports more than 100 tuition-free public charter schools enrolling over 44,000 students (approximately 5% of public school enrollment). These schools operate with autonomy over staffing, curriculum, and budgeting while remaining accountable to state standards. They are authorized locally or through the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission. Many serve historically underserved communities and offer specialized learning approaches.
Choosing the Right Program for Your Family
Seeking a Private K–12 School Statewide
Education Freedom Scholarship (EFS), or, zoned for Memphis-Shelby, Metro Nashville, or Hamilton schools and income-qualified Education Savings Account (ESA)
Caring for a Student with an IEP and a Qualifying Disability
Individualized Education Account (IEA)
Looking for a Tuition-free, Alternative Public School
Public Charter Schools
Interested in Donor-funded Scholarships
Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit SGOs (starting 2027)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Education Freedom Scholarship?
The EFS program is open to K–12 students statewide. There is no IEP requirement. Renewal and new student application windows have specific dates each year.
How much money does each program provide?
EFS provides about $7,295 per student. ESA awards equal the average per-pupil TISA allocation for the student’s zoned district. IEA awards range from about $7,000 to $23,000+ depending on the student’s individual plan and zoned district.
Can I use a Tennessee scholarship for homeschooling?
EFS and ESA are designed for use at participating private schools, not for traditional homeschooling. IEA allows broader use of funds for educational services that may include some at-home learning supports for students with qualifying disabilities. Families pursuing homeschooling should review each program’s allowed uses carefully.
Can I combine programs?
No. Tennessee law allows students to participate in only one program (EFS, ESA, or IEA) per school year. Charter school enrollment is separate and handled through individual school lotteries.
Are charter schools free?
Yes. By Tennessee law, public charter schools cannot charge tuition, enrollment fees, or registration fees. They are public schools funded by state and local dollars.
What is the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit?
It’s a new federal tax credit (up to $1,700 per donor) for contributions to approved Scholarship Granting Organizations, beginning in 2027. Tennessee has formally opted in, meaning Tennessee families will be able to apply for scholarships funded by these donations once SGOs are certified.
Where can I get help with my application?
The Tennessee Department of Education maintains official program pages for EFS, ESA, and IEA with FAQs, application portals, and contact information. Many participating private schools also offer enrollment guidance.