Ohio School Choice Guide for Homeschool Families 2026

💰

Funding Amount

EdChoice provides up to $6,166 (K-8) or $8,408 (9-12) per student. Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship provides up to $27,000 for students with disabilities.

Program Overview

Program: EdChoice Scholarship Program

Ohio has multiple school choice programs, with the EdChoice Scholarship being the most prominent. While the primary voucher is for private school tuition, Ohio has been expanding its education options. Here is what homeschool families should know.

Eligibility Requirements

EdChoice: expanded to near-universal eligibility for private school students
Jon Peterson Scholarship: students with documented disabilities
Ohio resident students in grades K-12
Homeschool families can access the Jon Peterson Scholarship for special needs students

Approved Expenses

Here is what you can use Ohio ESA or scholarship funds for:

Private school tuition (EdChoice)
Special education services and therapy (Jon Peterson)
Assistive technology and specialized instruction (Jon Peterson)
Curriculum and instructional materials for special needs students
Related services outlined in the student's service plan

How to Apply

EdChoice: apply through the Ohio Department of Education scholarship portal
Jon Peterson: work with your school district to establish an Individualized Service Plan
Submit required documentation including proof of residency and disability documentation (if applicable)
Check application deadlines on the Ohio DOE website

Key Dates: EdChoice applications typically open in February. Jon Peterson applications follow the school district's timeline. Check the Ohio Department of Education for current dates.

Testing Requirements

EdChoice students participate in required testing at their private schools. Ohio homeschool students must submit an annual academic assessment to their local superintendent.

Tips for Homeschool Families

Ohio's EdChoice is primarily for private school families, but the Jon Peterson Scholarship is a powerful option for homeschool families with special needs children
The Jon Peterson Scholarship is one of the most generous special needs programs in the country at up to $27,000
Ohio homeschool law requires annual notification and assessment. Stay compliant to maintain your homeschool status
Monitor Ohio legislature for ESA expansion that may create direct homeschool funding options

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Ohio homeschoolers get the EdChoice voucher?

The EdChoice Scholarship requires enrollment in an eligible private school. Traditional homeschool families cannot directly access EdChoice. However, families with special needs children can use the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship for educational services and therapy.

What is Ohio's Jon Peterson Scholarship?

The Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship provides up to $27,000 per year for students with documented disabilities. Funds can be used for specialized instruction, therapy, assistive technology, and related services. Homeschool families with eligible students can access this program.

What are Ohio's homeschool requirements?

Ohio requires parents to notify their local superintendent annually of their intent to homeschool. You must provide a curriculum outline and submit an annual academic assessment showing satisfactory progress.

Get Weekly AI Homeschool Tips

Stay updated on ESA programs, AI tools, and curriculum ideas for your homeschool.

Subscribe Free Browse All Guides

Ohio School Choice Guide for Homeschool Families