Last verified: October 2026
Can ESA+ pay private school tuition in Charlotte?
Yes. At a Direct Payment School, ESA+ pays tuition and required fees first, twice a year, and any money left after tuition can go to other allowable expenses. Tuition also counts toward the $500 academic spending rule.
Paid to Direct Payment Schools in the fall (August/September) and spring (January/February).
The whole purpose of the grant; it can never exceed the school's required tuition and fees.
What are the ESA+ rules for tuition and fees?
- The school must be on NCSEAA's Direct Payment list for the year, and the student must be enrolled and attending by October 1 for fall funds.
- Required fees can include books, transportation and equipment the school requires; schools may not add fees because a student holds a scholarship.
- If tuition is more than the award, the family pays the difference; if it is less, an ESA+ balance stays in the account.
Allowed vs not allowed
| ESA+ can pay for | ESA+ cannot pay for |
|---|---|
| Tuition at a 2026-27 Direct Payment School | Next year's enrollment or registration deposit |
| Required fees the school bills, such as required books | Optional fees such as trips, clubs or aftercare |
How does this work for a Charlotte-area family?
In the four-county region, 134 schools were on the 2026-27 Direct Payment list. Schools built for learning differences, such as The Fletcher School, Crossway Academy and Cyzner Institute, are among them.
Plan my child's ESA+ spending →
Source: NCSEAA ESA+ Parent Guide to Allowable Expenses, 2026-27; ESA+ Program Rules and Requirements. A summary, not legal advice.