5 States Expanding ESA Programs in 2026
Texas, Iowa, and three other states are launching or expanding Education Savings Account programs this year.
Education Savings Account programs continue to expand across the country in 2026. Five states are making significant changes to their ESA programs this year, opening new funding opportunities for millions of families.
Texas launched its Education Freedom Account program with $10,800 per student annually — one of the most generous ESA awards in the nation. The program is available to all Texas students, making it a universal ESA.
Iowa's Students First ESA program, which launched as universal in 2025, is seeing its second full year of enrollment with streamlined application processes and expanded approved expense categories.
North Carolina increased its Opportunity Scholarship awards to $7,468 for elementary students and even higher for high school students, while expanding income eligibility to reach more middle-class families.
Arkansas and West Virginia are both expanding their ESA programs with higher award amounts and simplified application procedures, reflecting the national trend toward universal school choice.