Every parent or guardian wants the same thing: an education that helps their child grow, thrive, and feel confident about the future. Starting in 2027, a new opportunity, the Step Up, Step Further Scholarship Fund, will help make that possible for even more Florida families.
If you are just hearing about Step Up, Step Further, here are five important things to know and how to stay connected as the program takes shape.
1.) What Can the Step Up, Step Further Scholarship Be Used For?
The Step Up, Step Further Scholarship is designed to support real-world educational needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Based on current program guidance, scholarship funds may be used for a variety of approved educational expenses, including:
• Tuition
• Tutoring and academic support
• Transportation
• Technology and educational tools
• Other eligible educational services that help support your child’s learning
This flexibility means families can use the scholarship in the ways that best support their child, whether that’s extra help in a tough subject, access to technology, or services that enhance their learning experience.
More details explaining what is covered under the definition of eligible education expense is pending final program rules from the US Treasury.
2.) Who Is the Scholarship For?
The Step Up, Step Further Scholarship Fund is intended for Florida students in grades K–12, including students who are eligible to be enrolled in
• Public schools
• Private schools
The goal is simple: help families access additional educational resources, regardless of where their children are currently enrolled.
3.) Where Do the Scholarship Funds Come From?
The Step Up, Step Further Scholarship Fund is made possible through voluntary donations from individual taxpayers who choose to allocate a portion of their federal taxes to support student scholarships.
Beginning in 2027, individuals can receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit (up to $1,700), helping turn tax dollars into direct educational support for students across Florida.
For families, this means the Step Further scholarships are funded by people who believe in expanding educational opportunities for students.
4.) How Can Parents & Guardians Stay Connected?
The program officially launches in 2027, and details will continue to be shared as they are finalized. The best way to stay informed is to stay connected.
Parents and guardians can:
• Follow Step Up, Step Further on social media, including Facebook and Instagram, for updates
• Sign up for updates by filling out the form on the Parents & Guardians page
• Watch for announcements about application timelines, eligibility updates, and helpful tools
5.) Who Qualifies For a Scholarship Under the Federal Program? (And how to check)
Beginning in 2027, families earning up to 300% of their county’s median income may qualify.
To make this easy, families can use the AMI Lookup Tool to check potential eligibility by selecting their Florida county. This tool provides a straightforward way to determine if your student may qualify.
Looking Ahead
The Step Up, Step Further Scholarship Fund is being built with K-12 students at the center, focused on dignity, clarity, and access. While applications are not open yet, learning more now will help you feel prepared when the program begins in 2027.
