Homeschooling in Utah is shifting in exciting ways, giving families more freedom to shape educational experiences around their learners’ unique interests. The Utah Fits All ESA program is part of this shift, offering support that empowers parents to rethink what school can look like.
Rather than following a traditional school model, families can explore a range of resources that support meaningful and flexible learning, from curriculum choices to enrichment activities. At Outschool, you’ll find live, engaging classes that can complement your homeschool approach and align with ESA fund use.
Understanding ESA funds in Utah
The Utah Fits All Scholarship Program, the state’s version of an Education Savings Account (ESA), allows families to shape an educational path that fits their child’s unique needs. Instead of being limited by a one-size-fits-all system, families receive state funds for various approved learning resources and experiences.
Rules and regulations
- Accountability: While the program offers flexibility, funds must be used for approved educational expenses. Misuse of funds can result in penalties or loss of scholarship.
- Renewal: Scholarships are awarded annually. Families must reapply each year and demonstrate continued eligibility.
- Additional funds: Students cannot simultaneously receive the Carson Smith Opportunity Scholarship or be enrolled in public school during the scholarship year.
Scholarship amounts for homeschooling families
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the Utah Fits All Scholarship Program offers the following annual awards for home-based students:
- Ages 5–11: Up to $4,000
- Ages 12–18: Up to $6,000
Use of Funds for Homeschooling with Utah Fits All ESA
- Curriculum & instructional materials
- Full curriculum programs (online or print)
- Textbooks, workbooks, lesson plans
- Educational software and apps (Must align with Utah’s core standards and support structured learning, not meant for general enrichment or entertainment)
- Tutoring & educational services
- Private tutoring in core subjects
- Educational therapy (speech, occupational, behavioral, etc.) from licensed providers
- Online or in-person classes through approved providers
- Arts, music & extracurricular activities
- Structured arts and music classes aligned with Utah standards are fully eligible
- Other extracurriculars (sports, clubs, theater, etc.) are capped at 20% of your total ESA funds
- Physical education (like martial arts or dance) has its own separate 20% cap
- Both caps may be used as long as they don’t exceed their respective limits
- Technology
- Computers, tablets, or similar learning devices (1 device per student every 3 years)
- Educational tech tools or apps that directly support learning
- Devices must be used primarily for your child’s education, not general household use
- Transportation
- Up to $750 per year for ride services to approved educational activities (e.g., classes, co-ops, tutoring)
- Must be a fee-for-service provider (not personal driving or mileage)
You can get the complete list of eligible expenses under the Utah Fits All ESA program here.
How to apply for ESA funds in Utah
If you’re ready to personalize your child’s education with the Utah Fits All ESA, the application process is more straightforward than you might think. Whether homeschooling full-time or creating a hybrid plan, here’s a quick guide to help you get started:
- Check your child’s eligibility
Ensure your child is a Utah resident and meets age and grade-level requirements. Most K–12 students qualify, regardless of current school enrollment.
Complete your Utah Fits All Scholarship application when the window opens. Visit the official application portal through Odyssey to start the process, which typically takes 2-3 weeks for review.
- Upload your documentation
Prepare your documentation package: Utah residence verification, child's birth certificate or age verification, and household income details. Families at or below 300% FPL and returning students with accountability measures receive priority consideration in the review process.
Once everything’s set up, you may use your Odyssey digital account to receive and manage your funds. This platform streamlines payment for approved educational expenses, including Outschool’s live classes and tutoring options.
Once approved for the Utah Fits All ESA, you can create an educational plan that works best for your child.
Note: If you’re a first-time homeschooler in Utah, you must submit a one-time Notice of Intent to your local school district, stating your intention to homeschool your child. This replaces the previous affidavit requirement and is only necessary once per child, unless you move to a different district.
Exploring Utah Fits All homeschooling benefits
Homeschooling with the Utah Fits All ESA means having more choice in how, when, and where learning happens. Instead of following a set path, families can shape an experience that reflects their child’s interests, strengths, and needs. Here are some key benefits of using the Utah Fits All ESA for your homeschooling journey.
Use state funds for curriculum, tutoring, enrichment, therapy, technology, etc.
Tailor education to your child’s unique style with a mix of hands-on tools, online classes, and creative approaches.
- Access to specialized support
Invest in one-on-one instruction, adaptive tools, or therapies to meet specific learning needs.
Explore music, art, coding, foreign languages, and other engaging subjects beyond the core.
- Freedom from standard models
Build a homeschool routine that fits your family, with no rigid schedules or one-size-fits-all approach.
Maximizing ESA funds for your homeschooling curriculum
Planning your next steps becomes essential once you’re selected for the UFA program. Here are some thoughtful ways to make your ESA budget go further:
- Focus on what matters most - Start with your learner’s needs and interests, like building confidence in reading or diving deeper into a passion like animals or animation.
- Plan for both structure with creativity - Blend core curriculum with enrichment, like online art classes, science projects, or live coding lessons, to keep learning well-rounded and engaging.
- Use free and low-cost community resources - Public libraries often offer curriculum-friendly books, learning kits, and even workshops. You can also connect with a local homeschool co-op or lending library to borrow materials and swap resources with other families.
- Choose tech that lasts - ESA funds can cover one device every three years. Look for tools that will grow with your child and support learning across subjects.
- Get support where it counts - If your child benefits from tutoring or therapy, you can use funds for services that help them thrive, as long as they’re from approved providers.
- Plan, then adapt - Your homeschool journey might evolve through the year, and that’s okay. ESA funds offer flexibility to adjust as your learner grows.
- Ask other families - Homeschool groups and online ESA communities are full of parents sharing what’s worked for them. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
With the right mix of creativity and planning, your ESA funds can support a joyful, customized education that reflects your child’s unique path.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about UFA
When navigating a new program like Utah’s Fits All ESA, it’s natural to have a few questions. This quick FAQ section is here to clear up common questions and give you a clearer picture.
Who qualifies for the Utah Fits All ESA program?
Most K–12 students in Utah can apply for the Utah Fits All ESA, whether in public school, private school, or already homeschooling. Priority is often given to returning families and those with household incomes below 300% of the federal poverty level. Students already receiving certain state scholarships or attending specific specialized schools may not be eligible. It’s always a good idea to check the latest application guidelines.
Do I have to follow a specific curriculum with ESA funds?
You’re free to choose a curriculum that fits your child’s learning style and interests. If the resources come from approved vendors and follow the program’s guidelines, you can build a homeschool plan that works best for your family. It’s all about creating a learning experience that feels right for your learner.
Can ESA funds be used for extracurricular activities?
Absolutely! If the provider is approved through the program, you can use your ESA funds for enrichment opportunities like music lessons, coding classes, art workshops, and more. These kinds of activities can add energy and creativity to your homeschool routine. They help your learner explore new interests, build real-world skills, and stay excited about learning.
Can I use ESA funds for special education services or therapies?
If your child benefits from services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or other specialized supports, ESA funds can help cover those costs. Just make sure the provider is approved under the program guidelines.
Use your ESA funds to build a homeschool routine that works
The Utah Fits All ESA program allows families to shape an education that fits their child. With support for everything from core subjects to enrichment and specialized services, creating a homeschool experience that reflects your learner’s strengths, interests, and goals is easier than ever.
With a wide range of approved resources and services, families can create a homeschool plan that feels both meaningful and manageable. Outschool offers live, interactive classes that are ESA-eligible through approved channels. It’s an easy way to add variety and expert instruction to your homeschool routine.
More resources for Utah homeschoolers
For more details on funding options, see our guide to the Utah Empowerment Scholarship.
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