What is an ESA?
An Education Savings Account (ESA) is a state-run program that gives eligible families public education funds to spend on approved learning tools and services outside the traditional public school system — instead of the money going to a school, it's placed in an account the family controls. ESA funds can cover private school tuition, tutoring, curriculum, online courses, and educational technology, depending on the state.
Is Brilliant eligible in my state?
| State | Program | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) | Available now |
| Arkansas | Education Freedom Account (EFA) | Available now |
| Florida | PEP, FES-UA | Available now (reimbursement) |
What if my state doesn't have an ESA?
Some states don't run an ESA, but still offer public funding for homeschooling through independent study charter schools. Families enroll their child as a public charter student, and the charter provides an annual instructional-funds allotment they can spend with approved vendors. Unlike an ESA, this isn't a single statewide program — each charter school maintains its own approved-vendor list.
| State | Funding type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| California | Charter school instructional funds | Available through participating charters |
| Alaska | Charter school instructional funds | Available through participating charters |
| Wisconsin | Charter school instructional funds | Available through participating charters |
How to use your funds, by state
- Using Arizona ESA funds with Brilliant →
- Using Arkansas EFA funds with Brilliant →
- Using Florida scholarship funds with Brilliant →
- Using charter school funds for Brilliant (CA, AK, WI) →
Don't see your state?
We're actively expanding to more ESA and school-choice programs, and we're happy to work with your homeschool charter school directly. If you'd like to use public funding toward Brilliant and your state or charter isn't listed above, email us at support+esas@brilliant.org — let us know your state and program (or your charter's name), and we'll follow up.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my ESA to pay for a Brilliant subscription?
Yes, in Arizona, Arkansas, and Florida — see the state-specific guides above for exact steps. If your state isn't listed yet, let us know and we'll factor your interest into which state we add next.
My state doesn't have an ESA — can I still use public funds for Brilliant?
Possibly, if you're enrolled in a homeschool charter school in California, Alaska, or Wisconsin. Ask your education specialist or homeschool teacher whether your charter offers instructional funds and whether they can add Brilliant as an approved vendor — have them email us at support+esas@brilliant.org and we'll work with your charter directly.
Does Brilliant work with ClassWallet?
Yes — Brilliant is a registered Direct Pay vendor in ClassWallet for Arizona and Arkansas.
Does Brilliant work with Florida's EMA or MyScholarShop?
Florida families can use the reimbursement method through EMA. Brilliant isn't available for direct purchase on MyScholarShop yet.
How much does Brilliant cost through my ESA or charter funds?
The same as our standard subscription pricing — public funds simply cover the cost through your program instead of a personal card. Check your program's award amount and any spending limits.
