Ohio EdChoice Scholarship 2025 - Complete Guide to Eligibility & Application
The Ohio Educational Choice Scholarship Program (EdChoice) provides crucial financial assistance for families seeking private school alternatives. Updated for 2025, this definitive guide explains the program's four distinct pathways, application process, and important changes every Ohio parent should know.
2025 Program Highlights:
- Scholarship amounts: Up to $6,165 for K-8, $8,407 for high school
- Application window: Expected February-April 2025 (exact dates TBD)
- Participating schools: 400+ approved Ohio private schools
- New for 2025: Expanded income limits under Traditional Pathway
Understanding Ohio's 4 EdChoice Pathways
1. Traditional EdChoice (Public School-Based)
This is for students assigned to designated low-performing public schools (updated annually by ODE). No income requirements.
2. Expansion EdChoice (Income-Based)
For families at/below 250% of federal poverty guidelines:
3. EdChoice Autism Scholarship
Specialized program for students with autism spectrum disorders (separate application process).
4. Cleveland Scholarship Program
Unique voucher system for Cleveland Metropolitan School District residents.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Phase 1: Pre-Application (Jan-Feb 2025)
- Verify eligibility via ODE's online portal
- Contact a preferred participating private school
Phase 2: Formal Application (Feb-Apr 2025)
Required documents now include:
- Proof of Ohio residency (utility bill, lease agreement)
- Income verification (2024 tax returns or current pay stubs)
- Student's birth certificate
- IEP (if applying for Autism Scholarship)
Critical 2025 Program Updates
- Increased funding: Scholarship amounts adjusted for inflation
- Streamlined renewal: Automatic eligibility for returning students meeting requirements
- New verification: Random income audits for Expansion Pathway applicants
Need Personalized Help?
Contact the Ohio Department of Education's EdChoice team:
📞 (877) 644-6338 | 📧 [email protected]
EdChoice Scholarship FAQs 2025-2026
What are the EdChoice Scholarship eligibility requirements for 2025?
For 2025, eligibility depends on which pathway you apply under:
Traditional Pathway: Must attend a designated low-performing public school (no income limits)
Expansion Pathway: Household income at/below 250% of federal poverty level
Autism Scholarship: Medical diagnosis of ASD
Cleveland Scholarship: Resident of CMSD attendance zone
How do I apply for the EdChoice Scholarship step by step?
- Confirm eligibility on Ohio's scholarship portal
- Select a participating private school
- Complete online application during open window (Feb-Apr 2025)
- Submit required documents (proof of income, residency, etc.)
- Receive award notification within 6-8 weeks
What are the 2025 income limits for EdChoice Scholarship?
| Family Size | Maximum Annual Income (250% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $36,450 |
| 2 | $49,300 |
| 3 | $62,150 |
| 4 | $75,000 |
| Each additional | +$12,850 |
Note: Traditional Pathway has no income limits
How does EdChoice compare to other Ohio school vouchers?
EdChoice vs. Jon Peterson Scholarship:
- EdChoice covers private school tuition
- Peterson funds special education services
EdChoice vs. Cleveland Scholarship:
- Cleveland program has higher income limits
- Only for CMSD residents
What's the renewal process for EdChoice Scholarship?
For 2025 renewals:
1. Maintain enrollment at participating school
2. Meet academic progress requirements
3. Submit renewal form by April 30, 2025
4. Income verification only if circumstances changed
Where can I find the approved schools list?
The official EdChoice participating schools list is updated annually. For 2025-26, search by:
- County
- Grade level
- Special needs accommodations
What is the 2025 application deadline?
Expected deadlines:
- February 1, 2025: Application opens
- April 30, 2025: Final deadline
Note: Funds are first-come, first-served - apply early!
Are there special provisions for special needs students?
Yes, two options:
1. EdChoice Expansion: Higher income limits for IEP students
2. Autism Scholarship: $32,000/year for ASD-specific services
Both require current IEP/ETR documentation
What are the tax implications of EdChoice Scholarships?
Key considerations:
- Scholarship funds are not taxable income
- May affect deductions for school expenses
- Consult a tax professional about Ohio's education tax credits
Why was my EdChoice Scholarship denied?
Common reasons:
• Incomplete application (missing documents)
• Income exceeds limits (check Expansion Pathway)
• Applied after funds were exhausted
• School not approved for 2025-26 year
Appeal process: File within 30 days of denial with additional documentation