Last verified: October 2026
Can a Raleigh family use ESA+ for private school tuition?
Yes, at a school on NCSEAA's Direct Payment list. ESA+ pays the tuition first each semester, the family covers any gap, and money left after tuition stays available for other allowable costs. Tuition counts toward the $500 core-subject rule.
NCSEAA pays the listed school from the account each semester.
This is all the Opportunity Scholarship pays for, up to the tier amount.
What are the ESA+ rules for tuition?
- Fall payments go only to a 2026-27 Direct Payment School where the student is already enrolled and attending on October 1.
- Next year's enrollment fee, late fees, payment plan surcharges and card or service fees are not allowed.
- When tuition is higher than the award the family pays the rest; when it is lower, the remaining ESA+ balance stays in the account.
Allowed and not allowed
| ESA+ can pay for | ESA+ cannot pay for |
|---|---|
| Tuition at a Direct Payment School | Enrollment deposits for the following year |
| Required fees the school bills as part of tuition | Late fees and payment plan surcharges |
How does tuition work for a Triangle family?
Most Raleigh-area ESA+ students at Fletcher, Hill, Trilogy or a Catholic parish school will see the whole base award go to tuition. Ask the school for its tuition after the award so you know whether anything will be left for therapy.
Plan my child's ESA+ spending →
Source: NCSEAA ESA+ Parent Guide to Allowable Expenses, 2026-2027, and ESA+ Program Rules and Requirements. A plain-language summary, not legal advice.