Funding and ESAs
Education Trends
Flexibility
Education Savings Accounts (ESAs): A Smarter Way to Customize Learning
July 14, 2025
Exploring flexible, personalized learning can feel out of reach, but with Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), it doesn’t have to be. That’s why many families are turning to ESAs to make customized education more accessible and attainable.
These accounts allow parents and guardians to use public or tax-advantaged funds to cover a variety of educational expenses. For families seeking flexible and high-quality education options, ESA programs open the door to customized learning, including online school solutions like Apex Learning.
Whether you’re looking for a single class — such as an AP course not offered in your student’s brick-and-mortar school or a full-time, accredited online program — Apex Learning families use ESA funding to support their academic goals. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) are publicly funded programs that enable parents and guardians to pay for a variety of educational services outside of the traditional public school system. These funds can typically be used for:
Some states offer government-funded ESA programs (e.g., Arizona, Florida, Texas), while Coverdell ESAs are federally recognized tax-advantaged savings accounts that families can contribute to privately to pay for K-12 education expenses.
These options give families the ability to shape their students’ educational path, especially for students who need more advanced or personalized instruction.
Parents and guardians are using the flexibility of ESAs to create school experiences that fit their students’ goals, schedules, and requirements — whether they’re advanced learners or have unique learning needs.
Example 1: Making the Most of Summer
The family of a motivated sophomore in Florida uses ESA funding to enroll their student in AP U.S. History with Apex Learning over the summer. It’s a way to get ahead, free up time during the school year, and take on more advanced coursework in the fall without feeling overwhelmed.
Example 2: Filling Gaps with Part-Time Online Courses
A student in Texas wants to take AP Computer Science, but their public school doesn’t offer it. Using ESA funds, their family enrolls them in that course through Apex Learning, giving the student access to a college-level class while staying enrolled in their home district.
Example 3: Full-Time Online Learning with Room to Grow
A family in Arizona uses ESA funding to enroll their middle schooler full-time at Apex Learning. Their student learns best in a quiet, self-paced environment — and now they can move through core subjects at their own speed, explore electives, and even start AP classes early.
In all cases, Apex Learning provides invoices, course documentation, and enrollment support to make using ESA funds as seamless as possible. Whether you're looking to supplement your student’s current education or completely customize their academic path, ESA funding makes it possible.
Eligibility for an ESA depends on your state, but more families are qualifying than ever before. The latest data reported there are 21 ESA programs in 18 states and nearly 500,000 students using ESAs. As ESA programs expand across the country, many states are opening the door to students who want more control over how and where they learn.
Common eligibility criteria include:
Some states (e.g., Arizona and West Virginia) now offer universal ESA access, meaning all families can apply regardless of income, background, or learning needs.
If you're unsure about your eligibility, check with your state's Department of Education or official ESA program website. There, you’ll find a list of current requirements, how to apply, and qualifying educational expenses.
Remember, even if you’re not eligible for a government-funded ESA, you may still be able to use a Coverdell ESA, a private college savings plan that can be used tax-free for qualified K-12 educational expenses.
ESA program availability and rules vary widely by state, but here are a few where ESA access is expanding:
One of the most robust programs, Arizona offers universal ESA eligibility. Parents and guardians can use funds for online school tuition, curriculum, testing, and more.
Florida’s ESA-style program allows families to customize education plans for students with unique learning needs, many of whom benefit from the structure and pacing of online learning.
As of 2025, Texas is expanding ESA access through pilot programs, giving families in eligible areas greater flexibility in choosing alternative education providers.
Several other states have launched or expanded ESA-style programs, particularly for students with disabilities, those exiting public schools, or those seeking personalized learning environments.
Check your state’s Department of Education or ESA program website for the latest rules, application deadlines, and provider lists.
If you’ve qualified for ESA funding (or are considering it), online schools like Apex Learning provide a transparent, flexible, and academically rigorous solution.
1. Transparent, Predictable Pricing
One of the biggest concerns families have when exploring nontraditional education options is cost. Apex Learning offers clear tuition pricing, whether you’re enrolling in a single course or an entire schedule. There are no hidden fees or surprise costs, making it easy to plan your ESA budget.
2. Flexible Learning Built for Students
Many learners need more challenge and less constraint. Apex Learning gives students the freedom to:
This flexibility allows families to build education around their student’s specific needs.
3. Accredited, College-Prep Focused
Apex Learning is fully accredited and offers College Board-approved AP courses, making it a great fit for students working toward college admission. Parents and guardians can be confident that their student is receiving:
Apex Learning students score 7% higher than the national average on AP exams, and 88% of our AP English Literature students scored a 3 or higher, outperforming the global average by 16%.
At the end of the day, ESA funding is only as valuable as the opportunities it unlocks. For many families, Apex Learning delivers on every front:
If your student is ready to go further, faster — and you want to use ESA or Coverdell funds to get them there, we can help. Follow the steps below.
Step 1: Check Your State’s ESA Eligibility
Visit your state’s education website or ESA program portal to learn more about application requirements and allowable expenses.
Step 2: Explore the Apex Learning Course Catalog
From AP courses to credit recovery to full-time programs, we have the right academic path for your student’s needs and goals.
Step 3: Enroll and Submit ESA Documentation
Our team provides everything you need (e.g., receipts, course details, proof of accreditation, and enrollment records) for ESA reimbursement or direct payment.
Parents and guardians can have flexibility and educational options that help their students succeed. With ESAs and a trusted partner like Apex Learning, you can build a learning plan that’s personalized, purposeful, and proven to help your student excel.
Whether you’re planning for next semester or looking for an immediate solution, now’s the time to put your ESA funds to work and give your advanced learner the education they need.
Enroll today in classes at Apex Learning and give your student a flexible, high-quality education that fits.
