Step Up & Scholarships

Florida families may qualify for education scholarships that can help pay for approved learning expenses. This page will help you understand the main scholarship options, where to apply, and how homeschool families fit into the process.


☀️ PEP vs. Home Education

These are not the same thing in Florida.

A traditional Florida home education student is registered with their local school district and follows Florida’s home education requirements.

A PEP student participates through an approved scholarship funding organization instead of being registered with the district as a home education student.

→ Learn About the PEP Scholarship


💛What Can Scholarship Funds Pay For?

Depending on the scholarship program, funds may be used for approved education expenses such as curriculum, instructional materials, tutoring, eligible classes or programs, and other approved learning expenses.

→ View the Scholarship Purchasing Guide


📅 Applying for PEP

PEP applications are handled through an approved Scholarship Funding Organization, such as Step Up For Students. Application windows and funding timelines can change from year to year, so always check the current program page before applying.

→ Check Current PEP Application Information


📚 Other Florida Scholarship Options

Florida families may also qualify for other education scholarships depending on their child’s needs and school setting. These can include programs such as the Family Empowerment Scholarship and scholarships for students with unique abilities.

→ Explore Florida Scholarship Programs


☀️Good to Know☀️

If a student switches from a traditional Florida home education program to PEP, the family should follow the current instructions for ending the home education program with their local district and registering through the scholarship program.

PEP has its own requirements, including an annual learning plan and yearly assessment requirements, so it’s important to follow the current PEP rules for the year you’re participating.



Official Scholarship Resources


Step Up For Students — PEP

PEP Purchasing Guide

Florida DOE Scholarship Programs