The North Carolina Opportunity Scholarship is a state-funded voucher program providing up to $7,686 annually for private school tuition, available to all NC families regardless of income since 2024.
What Is the North Carolina Opportunity Scholarship?
The North Carolina Opportunity Scholarship Program is a state-funded school choice initiative that provides financial assistance for private school tuition. Established in 2013 and first implemented in 2014-15, the program expanded dramatically in 2023 to become universally available—meaning all North Carolina K-12 families now qualify regardless of household income. The scholarship is administered by the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) and helps families offset the cost of attending registered private schools throughout the state.
Key Takeaways
- Awards range from $4,612 to $7,686 annually based on household income tier
- All NC families are now eligible regardless of income (expanded in 2023)
- Can only be used at registered "Direct Payment Schools"—not for homeschooling
- Priority application period is February-March annually; lottery-based selection
- Over 700 private schools participate statewide
Award Amounts for 2026
Eligibility Requirements
Students must be North Carolina residents, at least 5 years old by August 31 (or 4 by April 16 with kindergarten approval), and enrolled in grades K-12. They cannot be simultaneously enrolled in public school or placed in a nonpublic school at public expense. Foster children automatically qualify for Tier 1 (highest) awards. While income no longer affects eligibility, it does determine your award tier—lower-income families receive larger scholarships and priority when funding is limited.
Critical Note for Homeschool Families
How to Apply
The Bottom Line
The Opportunity Scholarship represents significant financial support for North Carolina families choosing private education—with the 2023 expansion making it universally accessible regardless of income. However, if you're committed to homeschooling rather than private school enrollment, this program won't help you directly. Homeschool families with students who have disabilities should explore NC's ESA+ program instead, which does cover homeschool expenses. For everyone else, the Opportunity Scholarship requires actual enrollment in a participating private school.
