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Georgia Promise Scholarship

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Georgia Promise Scholarship.

What is the Georgia Promise Scholarship?

The Georgia Promise Scholarship Program, established by SB 233, is the state’s first education savings-account style program. Eligible families receive up to $6,500 per student each school year, starting in 2025–2026. Funds can be used for private school tuition, tutoring, textbooks, therapies, curriculum, technology, and transportation.

How do I apply for the Promise Scholarship?

  1. Check eligibility:

    • You must reside in Georgia (with at least one year of residency unless you are active-duty military).

    • Your child must be zoned to a public school within the lowest-performing 25% statewide.

    • Your child must have attended that school for two consecutive semesters, or be a rising kindergartner.

  2. Watch for the application window:

    • March 1 – April 15, 2025 and June 1 – June 30, 2025, with additional windows later in the year.

  3. Apply online through the MyGeorgiaPromise portal — first register, then complete the student application.

  4. Receive eligibility confirmation and award sheet, then select and notify your private school, homeschool provider, or other qualified service provider.

How long does it take to receive funds?

Funding begins in July 2025 for approved students. Funds are distributed quarterly by the Georgia Education Savings Authority (GESA) after your account is set up and verified.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Make sure your child and family meet eligibility criteria.

  2. Monitor or register for MyGeorgiaPromise updates before application windows.

  3. Apply during an open window via MyGeorgiaPromise.org.

  4. Verify your student’s eligibility.

  5. Submit your award sheet to your chosen provider.

  6. GESA activates your account, and you begin accessing funds.

  7. Funds are sent to providers or used directly by families, depending on the expense type.

What documentation is required?

  • Proof of Georgia residency (e.g., driver's license, utility bill, lease).

  • Verification of school zoning in a low-performing school via GOSA data.

  • Documentation of consecutive enrollment in said school (two semesters or rising kindergarten).

  • Agreements to use funds for approved educational expenses only, and consent to annual testing/audits.

Common FAQs

1. Who is eligible?
Students zoned to the lowest-performing 25% of public schools, with two consecutive semesters of enrollment, and Georgia residency (exceptions apply for active military families).

2. Is there an income limit?
No—first priority applies to families at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (about $120,000 for a family of four); others may qualify if funding remains.

3. What expenses are covered?
Private school tuition, tutoring, textbooks, curricula, therapy, technology, and up to $500/year in transportation costs. Up to 50% of unused funds can roll over.

4. How long can my child participate?
They may remain in the program through 12th grade—or up to age 20 (21 for special education) long as eligibility criteria continue to apply.

5. Can I get this and other scholarships?
No—students cannot receive the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship or a Student Scholarship Organization award while enrolled in Promise.

Who do I contact about my application status?

  • Georgia Education Savings Authority (GESA)

  • Local school district enrollment office — once your award sheet is submitted for school placement.