Florida Scholarships - Frequently Asked questions
We have been busy navigating the red tape associated with becoming an direct pay provider for almost a year.
We applied well before we were even sure we would actually take the leap of faith to launch the center. THIS week we finally got confirmation that we are not only approved but live and ready for business in the scholarship marketplace.
While we certainly accept self-pay families, the ability to accept scholarship funds will allow many more students to participate in the services at Prosper Noggin. We have learned a ton through the process, if you need help with a student application feel free to ask.
When can I apply for a scholarship?
They have not formally announced a date and it is unlikely that the funding organizations will provide much concrete notice. They have specifically referenced “Spring”. Based on research and past years, our best guess is April or May.
What type of scholarship could apply to homeschoolers?
FES-US (Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities) is “savings account” designed to be used by families with children that have a diagnosed disability. The award amount (for a more common level of disability – like ADHD or Dyslexia) is typically around $10,000 per child, per year (ages 3-22). These funds can be used for therapy, specialists, tutors / drop off programs, homeschool curriculum & supplies, technology and more.
FTC-PEP (Tax Credit Personalized Education Plan) is open to all Florida families who are not full-time private or public school students. The typical award is around $7,000-$8,000 per child, per year. Last year there were 20,000 available scholarships, in 2024-25 there will be 60,000 available. If your student receives a PEP scholarship, you forfeit other government provided programs, like free Florida Virtual and other public offerings.
(there are other scholarships, but these are the main two)
How do I apply?
There isn’t much to do until they open the applications online. You can sign up to be notified about the application date here.
You can also BE READY and prepared with your required documentation. Find the required documentation (see below) and have it scanned and saved to your computer BEFORE the application period begins.
How can I use the funds if I am awarded a scholarship?
There is a purchasing guide available online for your review. In short, the scholarship will pay for items that support your child’s education. This can be physical items (like desks and manipulatives) or curriculum and subscriptions. Funds can also be used for many services. Tutoring, homeschool support, electives, therapy and even educational field trips are possible approved expenses.
If you purchase an item OUTSIDE of the funding organization’s portal or outside of approved providers, you will be required to submit for reimbursement. Please be advised that the program is new and they are working to iron out many known pain points. The reimbursement process is very challenging and can take several months - be cautious when making large purchases or partaking in services not directly associated with the funding organizations.
Documents needed to apply for 24-25 Scholarship
Gather your documents now!
ALL new applications require:
[ ] Proof of residency (DL or utility bill from the last two months)
[ ] Social Security Number (child and applying parent)
[ ] Birth Certificate for students entering K and 1st grade (ages 3-6)
The FTC-PEP requires:
All of the above plus +
They use the income data to prioritize applicants
[ ] Tax Returns -- proof of income for all members of the household over the age of 18 (pay stub for 3o consecutive days before application submission + any other income / benefits). First priority is given to families with a household income of 185% of poverty (Federal poverty level in 2023 was $55,500 combined income for a household of 4).
It is okay if you choose not to share your income but it will put you at the end of the line. If you DO NOT want to provide income documentation you can submit Form # 1070NP.
The FES-US (Unique Abilities) application requires:
The “all applications” list above plus +
[ ] Diagnosis documentation (from a physician or appropriately licensed professional)
Prosper Noggin can assist with the testing and diagnosis process, if necessary.
All documentation must be current, valid, and match the parent/guardian’s full name and their current physical street address.
Email us at hello@prospernoggin.com for more information.
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