School Choice & Parent Empowerment

Information for Families

  

    FAQs

    Access our full FAQ document for answers to common questions about the program, test results, system issues, and more. For your convenience, we've also provided shortcuts below to help you quickly find answers by topic. We hope this helps address any questions you may have.

    Application Processing Windows

    To make the process as smooth as possible, applications will be reviewed and approved within the following three-week Priority Windows:

    • Priority Window A: March 3-March 23
    • Priority Window B: March 24-April 13
    • Priority Window C: April 14-May 4
    • Priority Window D: May 5-May 25

    The application portal will be closed from May 26-June 1.

    • Priority Window E: June 2-June 22
    • Priority Window F: June 23-July 13
    • Priority Window G: July 14-August 3

    The program will continue processing applications in three-week Priority Windows until January 31, 2026.

    If you have any questions about your application status, funding priorities, or next steps, please don't hesitate to reach out - we are here to help and truly appreciate your patience. As Arkansas moves forward in expanding educational opportunities, we want you to know that the Office of School Choice is committed to building a streamlined, transparent, and efficient process designed to meet the needs of Arkansan families with care and responsiveness. We are deeply grateful for your trust and partnership in this journey and look forward to seeing more students thrive with greater access to the education that best fits their needs. Thank you for being part of this exciting step toward empowering parents and transforming education in Arkansas!

    Program Questions

    • What is the total funding amount for the 2025-2026 school year?
      We have finalized EFA funding amounts for 2025-2026 to help you plan for the upcoming year. These amounts represent the net amount to the student after transaction fees, so families can spend 100% of this amount next year:
      • Non-succeed students - $6,864 total; $1,716 quarterly
      • Succeed students - $7,627 total; $1,906.75 quarterly
    • When will Quarter 4 funds be deposited into my account?
      Quarter 4 funds will be deposited starting April 10, 2025.
    • How do I pay my school tuition?
      You can find step-by-step instructions for paying a school or vendor here: How to Pay a Vendor

     

    Resources and Standards

    CW Accountholder Guide - Private School Families

    CW Accountholder Guide - Homeschool Families

    FACTS Customer Service

    List of Approved Vendors

    Service Provider Information

    List of Participating Schools

    Related Webinars

     

    Who do I contact for help with the EFA program?


    Office of School Choice and Parent Empowerment
    Arkansas Department of Education
    Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
    One Capitol Mall
    Little Rock, AR 72201
    Phone: 501-683-1876
    Email: ade.efa@ade.arkansas.gov