Nebraska Homeschool Funding & Opportunity Scholarships (2026)

Nebraska offers homeschool families access to education funding through the Opportunity Scholarships Act, a tax-credit scholarship program providing $5,000-$10,000 annually per student. The program operates similarly to Missouri's MOScholars—private donations fund scholarships while donors receive state tax credits^[1].

For Nebraska homeschoolers, this means real money for curriculum, tutoring, and educational expenses. This guide covers how the program works, who qualifies, and how to access available scholarships.

What Funding Is Available for Nebraska Homeschoolers?

Nebraska's Opportunity Scholarships Act provides education funding through a tax-credit scholarship model. Private donors contribute to approved scholarship organizations, receive state tax credits for their donations, and those funds are distributed as scholarships to qualifying families.

Scholarship amounts range from $5,000 to $10,000 per student, depending on available funding and student circumstances. The program has universal eligibility—no income limits restrict participation—though scholarship availability depends on donation volume.

Eligibility Requirements

What Can You Spend Scholarship Funds On?

• Curriculum & textbooks — Print, digital, and online educational materials
• Tutoring services — Academic support from qualified providers
• Testing fees — Standardized assessments and college entrance exams
• Private school tuition — Part-time or full-time enrollment
• Educational fees — Registration, materials, and program fees

What Scholarship Funds Cannot Cover

Standard restrictions apply:

- Athletics — Sports equipment, league fees, uniforms - Transportation — Travel expenses, gas money - Parent compensation — You cannot pay yourself to teach - Non-educational items — General supplies without educational purpose

Check with your specific scholarship granting organization for detailed guidelines on approved and restricted expenses.

How to Apply

Nebraska Homeschool Options

To qualify for Opportunity Scholarships, you must be legally homeschooling in Nebraska. The state offers two main pathways:

Rule 13 (Exempt School): File annually with the Nebraska Department of Education. Maintain instruction in required subjects and keep basic records.

Private School Status: Some families operate as private schools, which has different reporting requirements.

Either pathway can qualify for scholarship programs. Choose the option that best fits your homeschool approach.

Important Considerations

Before applying for Nebraska Opportunity Scholarships, understand these factors:

Funding Availability: As a donation-funded program, scholarship availability varies based on private contributions. Strong donation years mean more scholarships; lean years may create waitlists.

Documentation Requirements: Scholarship organizations require expense documentation. Keep receipts and maintain organized records throughout the year.

Program Evolution: Tax-credit scholarship programs can evolve as states gain experience. Stay informed about any changes to rules or procedures.

The $5,000-$10,000 range represents meaningful support for homeschool expenses. Even at the lower end, that covers significant curriculum and tutoring costs.

The Bottom Line

Nebraska's Opportunity Scholarships Act provides $5,000-$10,000 annually for homeschool families through a tax-credit scholarship model. Universal eligibility means any Nebraska homeschooler can apply, though scholarship amounts depend on available donation funding.

Start by confirming your homeschool registration with the Nebraska Department of Education, then research approved scholarship granting organizations to submit your application.