How Do I Get Started
From School Shortlist to First Day
A practical sequence for choosing a learning environment and arranging your tuition scholarship.
- 1
Establish your starting point
Indiana K-12 students are universally eligible beginning July 1, 2026, for 2026-27, with no household income ceiling. Prepare residency records and confirm the program requirements with Indiana DOE.
- 2
Choose the learning environment
Compare teaching style, class size, personal support, and the full price at participating schools. Include online programs if flexibility matters. The best choice schools respond to your student's needs; the best vouchers fit includes both education and affordability.
- 3
Secure a place with the school
Follow the admissions requirements at your selected private school and obtain acceptance before moving on to the scholarship award. Ask the admissions team which records it needs.
- 4
Coordinate the school's scholarship submission
Give the school the requested residency documents so it can submit your choice scholarship application to the Indiana Department of Education. There are two application windows each year: spring before the school year for full-year awards, and around November for the second semester. Confirm exact dates with the school and Indiana DOE.
- 5
Review the award and prepare for the first day
Your family receives an award letter, with funding varying by the local school corporation. Payment reaches the school directly. Compare the award against all charges, organize your student's routine, and plan to renew annually. Families exploring ESA should note that it serves students with disabilities.