The McKay Scholarship Program no longer exists. Effective July 1, 2022, it was transitioned and merged into the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA). This program helps Florida families secure funding for private school tuition or other educational services for children with disabilities.
This guide uses the most current and valid information for the FES-UA program. We cover all user concerns, including McKay Scholarship requirements, the application process, and the McKay Scholarship amount. We structure this guide for easy understanding, perfect for an 8th-grade student or parent seeking essential financial aid facts.
The FES-UA program is an Education Savings Account (ESA). This means the money goes directly to the parent, who uses the funds to customize the child’s education. This flexibility demonstrates leadership by parents who can choose from multiple providers (private school, tutoring, therapy) for their child’s specific needs. The FES-UA replaces the old McKay Scholarship and offers a wider range of approved expenses (online courses, college costs, learning materials).
Start application process for Florida Unique Abilities Scholarship (The FES-UA Guide)
What is the McKay Scholarship Now Called?
The McKay Scholarship is now called the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA).
The transition occurred on July 1, 2022. The FES-UA operates as an Education Savings Account (ESA). This structure allows parents to directly manage and spend state-allocated funds for their child’s educational needs.
Eligibility Criteria (FES-UA)
Eligibility for the FES-UA program is based on the student’s disability status, not the family’s income. There are three core requirements:
- Residency: The student must be a Florida resident.
- Age/Grade: The student must be 3 or 4 years old by September 1st and/or otherwise eligible for enrollment in a Florida public K-12 school. The scholarship remains in effect until the student graduates from high school or reaches the age of 22.
- Disability Documentation: The student must meet eligibility criteria by having one of three qualifying documents:
- An active Individualized Education Plan (IEP) from a Florida public school.
- A valid 504 Accommodation Plan from a Florida public school.
- A diagnosis of a disability from a licensed physician or psychologist.
Scholarship Coverage
The McKay Scholarship amount (now FES-UA) varies significantly based on the student’s needs.
- Amount Calculation: The award amount is calculated based on the student’s disability category and level of services (Matrix Level), as determined by their IEP. Awards can range from approximately $5,500 to over $20,000 per year. The final amount is determined by state funding rules.
- Coverage: Funds can be used for a variety of approved expenses. Parents secure funding for the child’s customized education through the ESA. Approved uses include four key areas:
- Private school tuition and fees.
- Specialized tutoring, therapies, and educational services.
- Curriculum, instructional materials, and technological devices.
- Community college costs and higher education expenses (courses at eligible institutions).
McKay Scholarship for College
The FES-UA funds can be used for certain college and higher education expenses. This applies to courses taken at eligible postsecondary institutions, including tuition and fees for non-degree coursework. Students must review the FES-UA approved vendor list to ensure the course provider is covered.
Also apply for Ingram Scholarship Program (Vanderbilt University) Fully Funded
Application Process
The application process is managed by state-approved Scholarship Funding Organizations (SFOs). To submit an application, follow these three steps:
- Choose an SFO: You must select one of the two state-approved SFOs: Step Up For Students or AAA Scholarship Foundation.
- Submit Application: You must file the FES-UA application online through your chosen SFO’s portal. You must include all required documents.
- Receive ESA: Once approved, the SFO establishes an Education Savings Account in the student’s name. Parents manage this account online.
Requirements and Documents
To meet eligibility criteria and finalize the application, parents must submit the following three key documents:
- Proof of Florida Residency: Documents must confirm that the student lives in Florida.
- Student’s Documentation: A copy of the student’s active IEP, 504 Plan, or qualifying medical diagnosis.
- Parent Affidavit: A signed and notarized affidavit affirming the validity of the parent’s signature and responsibility for the funds.
Eligible Schools and Phone Number
- Eligible Schools: The FES-UA fund can be used at any participating private school in Florida. Private schools must be registered with the state and demonstrate fiscal soundness by meeting state criteria. Parents must verify that a school is participating before enrolling the child.
- Phone Number: For information regarding Florida School Choice Programs, including the FES-UA, you must call the Office of Independent Education and Parental Choice (IEPC).
Apply Now
To submit an application and manage your account, you must use the SFO’s website. The McKay Scholarship login portal no longer exists.
- Start Here: Visit the website of either Step Up For Students or AAA Scholarship Foundation.
- Login: Parents log in directly to the SFO’s secure online portal. This portal allows parents to check the McKay Scholarship status (now FES-UA status) and approve payments.
