What is the Louisiana Scholarship Program?

The Louisiana Scholarship Program is a program designed to provide students with additional opportunities to attend high quality schools. Applicants are eligible to receive state-funded scholarships to enroll in participating nonpublic schools or high performing public schools.

Who is eligible for the program?

The statewide program is open to students entering kindergarten through grade 12 who meet the following criteria:

• Resides in Louisiana.
• Is a member of a family with a total income that does not exceed 250% of the 2013 federal poverty level.
• Is enrolled in a public school ranked C, D or F letter grade based on its 2011-2012 School Performance Score. Qualifying schools can be found here.
• Students who will be attending kindergarten for the first time this fall may also apply, assuming they meet the other eligibility requirements. 

If my child was not in a public school last year, can he/she still apply?

Only students who meet the residency and income requirements and attended a “C,” “D,” or “F” school the previous year are eligible to apply. The lone exception is that all incoming Kindergarten students who meet the income and residency requirements are also eligible. 

How do we apply?

First, you will need to get an application.  Updated applications will be available for download by mid-February or at any participating school.  Further details about how to complete and submit your application will be available once the Department of Education releases them, closer to February 10.

How do I know which high-performing schools are participating in the program?

A list of participating schools for the 2013-2014 school year will be available by February 10.  A list of participating schools from the school year is available HERE. 

How long is the application period?

Students may begin submitting completed applications mid-February. Applications must be received no later than Friday, March 15, 2013, online. 

Does it matter how quickly I apply?

No. There is no preference for early applications. All qualified applicants who meet the March 15 deadline will have an equal chance of selection, regardless of whether they are the first or the last to register.

Where do I turn in completed applications?

Submit your completed application, including proof of residency and proof of income, to a participating school. If you have any questions about completing the application, please call us at 1.866.402.9947 or send an email to LouisianaInquiry@federationforchildren.org.