June has arrived, which means Iowa families have one month left to apply for a Students First Education Savings Account for the 2026–27 school year. The application window closes on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., and families who are considering an accredited nonpublic school should not wait until the final days to begin the process.
Iowa’s ESA program gives eligible families access to state funds that can be used for tuition and other approved educational expenses at an accredited nonpublic school in Iowa. For many parents, that support can make the difference between wanting a different educational setting for their child and being able to choose one.
But families must take action before the deadline.
The most important date to remember is June 30. That is the final day to submit an ESA application for the 2026–27 school year. Waiting until the last minute can create unnecessary stress, especially for families who need to create an Odyssey account, gather information, or resolve a question before submitting.
Families should also remember that applying for an ESA is not the same as enrolling in a school. The ESA application is completed through Odyssey, while school enrollment is handled directly between the family and the school. Parents should contact the school they are considering to learn about admissions, available seats, tuition, fees, and enrollment steps.
This is especially important for families still exploring their options. An ESA application should not be delayed simply because a family is still deciding which accredited nonpublic school is the best fit. Families can continue those conversations with schools, but they should make sure the ESA application is submitted before the June 30 deadline.
For the 2026–27 school year, all Iowa K–12 students remain eligible for an ESA regardless of family income, provided they meet the program requirements and attend an accredited nonpublic school in Iowa. Families who may not have qualified during the first two years of the program should remember that the income restrictions are no longer in place.
Even with broader eligibility, families still need to apply each year. An ESA is not automatically renewed, and approval from a previous year does not remove the need to complete the application process again.
Families should take several steps now:
- Apply through the Odyssey portal before June 30.
- Contact the school directly about enrollment.
- Watch for communication from Odyssey.
- Keep future program dates on the calendar.
- Ask questions before the deadline if anything is unclear.
Iowa has taken an important step by expanding educational opportunity for families. ESAs help more parents choose the school that best fits their child’s needs, values, learning style, and goals. But choice is most useful when families have the information they need and act in time.
If you are considering an accredited nonpublic school for the 2026–27 school year, do not wait until the end of June. Apply, contact the school, ask questions, and take the next step before the deadline passes.
Families can learn more about applying for an ESA here.
Families looking for an ESA-eligible school can start here.
If you need further support contact help.ia@withodyssey.com or 515-368-9564.