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ESA: How Parents Can Turn the Education Savings Account into a College Head Start

  • Writer: Manit Kaushal
    Manit Kaushal
  • Aug 7
  • 3 min read

Updated: Aug 12

Flowchart titled "How an ESA Works" with icons: Apply, Get Approved, Receive Funds, Choose Education, Graduate Ahead. Blue text on white.

For parents, few opportunities have the potential to change a child’s future as much as the Education Savings Account (ESA). This state-funded programme gives families thousands of dollars per year, per student, to spend on approved educational services,putting you in the driver’s seat when it comes to designing your child’s learning path.

And while most parents think of using ESA funds for tuition or textbooks, they can also be applied to something with an even bigger long‑term payoff: earning college credits while still in high school.


What is an ESA and How Does it Work?

An ESA is a dedicated account funded by the state for eligible students. Instead of the money being sent directly to a public school, it is deposited into your account. You then decide how to spend it on your child’s education, provided the expenses are approved under the programme guidelines.

This model is designed to give families flexibility and control. Whether your child thrives in a private classroom, a homeschool setup, online programmes, or a blend of all three, the ESA allows you to choose without the full financial burden.


Eligibility criteria list for students includes low-income, disabilities, foster, military children. Two people read together on a sofa.

Who is Eligible?

ESA eligibility is being phased in over time. At present, priority is given to:

  • Students from low‑income households

  • Students with disabilities

  • Foster children

  • Children of active‑duty military families

  • Students leaving underperforming schools

Over the next few years, eligibility will expand until every student in the state can apply. Even if you’re unsure, it’s worth checking — many families discover they qualify sooner than expected.


Funding graphic with three green icons of people. Text explains student grants vary by grade: "Several thousand dollars per student."

How Much Funding Can Families Receive?

The amount varies depending on your child’s grade level, but it’s typically several thousand dollars per student, per year. For a family with multiple children, the combined ESA funding can represent a significant annual education budget.


What Can ESA Funds Be Used For?

Approved ESA uses include:

  • Private school tuition

  • Homeschool curriculum and materials

  • Educational technology and learning software

  • Tutoring and therapy services

  • Standardised test fees and preparation courses (SAT, ACT, AP exams)

  • Accredited college‑level courses through dual enrolment

It’s this last category that can make the most lasting difference for your child.



Icons show a path from grade 8 to university sophomore using ESA for college credits. Text: "Using ESA for College Credits with UPI Study."

Using ESA for College Credits with UPI Study

UPI Study is an ESA‑approved provider offering real, transferable U.S. college credit courses online. With ESA funding, students can start as early as Grade 8. This is called dual enrollment, where students complete high school requirements while also earning university credits.

Benefits of ESA‑funded Dual Enrolment with UPI Study:

  1. Time Saved: Students can graduate high school with one to two years of college already completed.

  2. Cost Reduction: ESA funds cover tuition for courses now, reducing future university expenses.

  3. Flexibility: Online, self‑paced classes that fit around any schedule.

  4. Readiness: Optional SAT/ACT prep helps students strengthen their admissions profile.



Costs and Payment Process

UPI Study requires a one‑time registration fee of $250, which covers the student until the end of high school. ESA funds can then be applied to course tuition.

Payments are processed through ClassWallet, the state’s secure ESA payment platform, making it straightforward for families to use their funds without handling reimbursements.


Step‑by‑Step: How to Get Started

  1. Check Your Eligibility — Visit the state ESA portal.

  2. Apply — Submit your application with the necessary documents.

  3. Approval — If accepted, your ESA will be funded.

  4. Select Courses — Work with UPI Study to choose the best options for your child.

  5. Pay via ClassWallet — Direct from your ESA account.


Why This Matters for Parents Now

The ESA is more than a funding programme — it’s a way to reshape your child’s education. Instead of waiting until high school graduation to start college, your child can take a more efficient path, saving both time and money.

With the right plan, an ESA can pay for an education that is richer, more personalised, and more future‑focused. For parents ready to take control, it’s an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed.


 
 
 

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