Q. What’s the enrollment window for the upcoming school year for foster or out-of-home-care students?
A: For new students, the application season for the 2026-2027 school year will officially open on February 1, 2026. Renewal students should aim to renew by April 30, 2026, to ensure there is no lapse in funding.

Q: Is priority funding for these students still in place?
A: Yes. While Florida has expanded scholarship eligibility to all students (universal choice), priority is still legally mandated for specific groups. Foster or out-of-home care students receive priority funding.

Q: Do I need to submit documented proof of my student’s foster or out-of-home-care status?
A: Yes. To provide proof of foster status or out-of-home care status, you must upload a copy of placement documentation, care placement, or other similar legal documentation under the Additional Documents section of the application in EMA.

Q: Does the upcoming expansion of the PEP option affect my foster child or out-of-home-care student?
A: Yes. The Personalized Education Program (PEP), which acts like an Education Savings Account (ESA) for homeschoolers, is growing. For the 2026-27 school year and beyond, the student cap is being removed altogether. Overall, this is a great option for foster parents who want to customize a child’s education with a mix of tutors, specialized classes, and online curriculum rather than a traditional private school. And foster or out-of-home-care students may apply at any time during the school year:

Q: Is my foster or out-of-home-care student exempt from application deadlines?
A: Yes. If your student in foster or out-of-home care qualifies for a scholarship but the application season has ended, please call Step Up For Students at (877) 735- 7837 to open an application outside of the standard window.