Autism Scholarship Program
Ohio
Ohio students with autism may receive scholarships for education services from a private provider, including tuition at a private school. After participating students receive education services, their parents endorse state checks for payment of special education services.
Participating Students
5,205
Students Eligible
2%
Student Eligibility
Students must be ages 3 to 21, identified or diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or pervasive developmental disorder, enrolled in or eligible to enter a public school special education system, and have a current Individualized Education Plan (IEP). _(Last updated July 30, 2024)_
Use of Funds
Scholarship funds may be used to pay for tuition at a special education program offered by an alternative public provider or private provider that implements the child’s IEP. Scholarships may also be used to pay for other services that are not included in the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) but that are associated with educating the child. _(Last updated July 30, 2024)_
Funding Amount & Source
The state calculates funding using a unique, program-specific formula set out in statute. The state pays a student’s parent or custodian for education services up to $32,445 in FY2025. If transportation is listed on the Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) as a related service, the parent may obtain transportation from a registered private provider that is approved by the state to provide such transportation and claim it for reimbursement through the Autism Scholarship program. Parents are responsible for covering any costs in addition to the maximum amount allowed per year. Any qualifying Ohio K–12 student that wishes to participate may receive funding. _(Last updated July 30, 2024)_
Legal History
No legal challenges have been filed against the program. _(Last updated July 30, 2024)_
Program Timeline
Program Enacted
Legislation passed to create the program
Program Launched
Program began accepting applications
Last Updated
July 30, 2024