Arkansas EFA: A Complete Parent’s Guide for 2025–2026

Introduction: Why Every Arkansas Parent Should Know About the Arkansas EFA

For many parents, the cost of quality education can be overwhelming. Whether your child attends public school, private school, or is homeschooled, finding the right resources often comes down to budget. The Arkansas EFA (Education Freedom Account) changes that equation.

Launched in 2023 under the LEARNS Act, the Arkansas EFA program puts educational choice in parents’ hands by letting families decide where their child’s state education dollars go. From private school tuition to accredited online courses, the Arkansas EFA opens doors to new opportunities.

What is the Arkansas EFA?

The Arkansas EFA is a state-funded program that allows parents to use a portion of the state’s per-student funding on approved educational services. Rather than directing all funds to public schools, the Arkansas EFA allocates money to families who then choose from a list of eligible providers.

The program began in the 2023–2024 school year with limited eligibility. By 2025–2026, the Arkansas EFA is open to all K–12 students in the state (KTLO News).

Arkansas EFA Funding Amounts for 2025–2026

According to the Arkansas Department of Education, the Arkansas EFA provides:

• Non-Succeed Scholarship students: $6,864 per year, paid in four installments of $1,716

• Succeed Scholarship students: $7,627 per year, paid in four installments of $1,906.75

These Arkansas EFA amounts are net of transaction fees, meaning parents can spend the full allocation on approved educational costs.

How the Arkansas EFA Uses ClassWallet to Manage Funds

All Arkansas EFA funds are managed through ClassWallet, the platform used by the state to ensure funds are only spent with approved providers.

Parents log in to ClassWallet, search the approved vendor list, and submit purchase requests. If UPI Study appears on the approved list, families can use Arkansas EFA funds to enroll their child in college-level courses that count toward a degree without any out-of-pocket cost.

What Arkansas EFA Funds Can Be Used For

The Arkansas EFA covers a variety of educational expenses, including:

• Private school tuition and fees

• Textbooks and curriculum materials

• Tutoring and special education services

• Educational therapy

• Technology and internet for learning

• Test preparation programs

• Accredited online courses that earn college credit

Real Example: Early College Credit Through Arkansas EFA

One Conway parent used Arkansas EFA funds to enroll her 10th-grade son in an online computer science course through UPI Study. The course counted toward his degree, giving him a head start on college before graduation.

Why the Arkansas EFA Matters for Families

The National Center for Education Statistics reports that the average in-state tuition for public universities in Arkansas is over $10,000 per year.

By using Arkansas EFA funds for early college credit, a student could earn 30 credits in high school, saving $20,000 or more in tuition and potentially graduating early.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Arkansas EFA and Start Using Funds

1. Check Arkansas EFA Eligibility – In 2025–2026, all K–12 students in Arkansas qualify.

2. Create or Log Into a ClassWallet Account – This is where all Arkansas EFA transactions are managed.

3. Browse Approved Vendors – Search for programs such as UPI Study, tutoring, or private school tuition.

4. Submit a Purchase Request – Provide details for approval through ClassWallet.

5. Receive Confirmation and Begin – Once approved, the Arkansas EFA funds are applied, and your child can start immediately.

   
   

Expert Insight on Arkansas EFA Benefits

Daniel Cruz, a former guidance counselor and now education consultant, says the Arkansas EFA program is leveling the playing field:

“Small-town and homeschool students can now access the same early credit opportunities that used to be limited to students in big districts with dual enrollment programs. The Arkansas EFA is a huge step toward educational equity.”

Key Takeaways for Parents About the Arkansas EFA

• The Arkansas EFA gives parents control over their child’s education.

• Funding is $6,864 for most students and $7,627 for Succeed Scholarship recipients in 2025–2026.

• ClassWallet ensures Arkansas EFA funds go to approved providers.

• Using Arkansas EFA for college credit can result in significant tuition savings.