How to Pay for Private School: 8 Funding Options for 2026
Private school doesn't have to mean paying full tuition out of pocket. Millions of families use ESAs, scholarships, tax credits, and other programs to make private education affordable. Here's every option available to you.
8 Ways to Fund Private School Education
Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)
15+ states$5,000–$17,000/year
State-funded accounts that provide families with public dollars to pay for private school tuition, curriculum, tutoring, and other approved education expenses.
ESA Program Guide →Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs)
20+ statesVaries by SGO
Nonprofits funded by tax-credit donations that award scholarships directly to students for private school tuition. Donors receive state tax credits.
Browse SGO Directory →State Tax Credit Scholarships
18 states$1,000–$10,000+/year
State programs that provide tax credits to individuals or corporations who donate to scholarship funds. The scholarships are then awarded to qualifying students.
Check Your State →School Vouchers
10+ states$4,000–$12,000/year
Government-funded certificates that parents can use to pay tuition at private schools of their choice. Some states have universal voucher programs.
ESA vs Voucher Comparison →529 Education Savings Plans
All 50 statesUp to $10,000/year for K-12
Tax-advantaged investment accounts that can now be used for K-12 private school tuition (up to $10,000 per year per beneficiary) thanks to the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
ESA vs 529 Comparison →Employer Tuition Assistance
Nationwide$5,250/year tax-free
Many employers offer educational assistance programs (Section 127 plans) that can be applied toward dependent K-12 tuition. Check with your HR department.
Learn More ↓Church & Religious Scholarships
NationwideVaries widely
Many churches, dioceses, and religious organizations offer tuition assistance for families attending faith-based schools. Some cover 25-75% of tuition.
Faith-Based Funding →School-Based Financial Aid
All schools10-50% tuition reduction
Most private schools offer need-based financial aid, merit scholarships, sibling discounts, and tuition payment plans. Always ask — many families qualify.
Find Schools →Step-by-Step: Finding the Right Funding
1Check Your State's ESA Program
Start with your state's Education Savings Account program. ESAs are the most generous funding source, with awards ranging from $5,000 to $17,000+ per year. Currently 15+ states offer ESA programs, and more are being added each year.
Check your state's ESA program →2Search for SGO Scholarships
Scholarship Granting Organizations award millions in scholarships annually. Many families qualify for multiple SGO scholarships that can be stacked with ESA funding. Search our directory of 125+ SGOs nationwide.
Browse SGO scholarships →3Ask the School About Financial Aid
Most private schools offer need-based aid, and many families don't realize they qualify. Contact the admissions office and ask about financial aid applications, payment plans, sibling discounts, and merit scholarships.
Find private schools near you →4Check Employer Benefits
Under IRS Section 127, employers can provide up to $5,250 per year in tax-free educational assistance. Some large employers (Amazon, Google, Starbucks) offer dependent education benefits. Check with your HR department.
5Stack Multiple Funding Sources
The key to affording private school is combining multiple sources. For example: an ESA ($8,000) + SGO scholarship ($3,000) + school financial aid ($2,000) + 529 plan ($2,000) = $15,000 toward tuition. Many families cover 80-100% of tuition this way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an ESA and an SGO scholarship at the same time?
In most states, yes. ESA funds and SGO scholarships can be stacked as long as the total doesn't exceed tuition costs. Check your state's specific rules, as some states have coordination requirements.
What if my state doesn't have an ESA program?
Even without an ESA, you can still access SGO scholarships, 529 plans, employer tuition assistance, church scholarships, and school-based financial aid. Many states are also considering ESA legislation — check our state guide for updates.
How much does private school actually cost?
Average private school tuition in the US is approximately $12,350 per year for elementary and $16,040 for high school (NCES data). However, costs vary significantly by region, school type, and grade level. Many faith-based schools charge $5,000–$10,000 per year.
Are there income limits for private school funding?
It depends on the program. Many state ESA programs are now universal (no income limit). SGO scholarships typically have income requirements (often 300% of federal poverty level). 529 plans and employer assistance have no income restrictions. See our income limits guide for details.
Can I get help navigating the application process?
Yes! School Choice USA provides free guidance to help families navigate ESA applications, find SGO scholarships, and connect with schools. Visit our ESA guide or contact us for personalized help.
Ready to Find Funding for Your Child?
Start by checking what programs are available in your state. Our free tools help you find ESAs, SGO scholarships, and schools that accept funding.