Every student learns differently, and for many families, the one-size-fits-all approach of traditional schooling doesn’t quite fit.
Whether you are looking for private school options, specialized tutoring for a child with unique abilities, or assistance with transportation costs, finding the right funding can change everything.
The Two Main “Step Up” Programs
Before diving into the application details, it is crucial to distinguish between the two primary organizations that use this name.
Step Up For Students (Florida, USA)
A state-approved nonprofit that manages five key scholarship programs for PreK-12 students in Florida.
These scholarships support private school tuition, homeschooling resources, and students with special needs.
iSTEPup Foundation (International)
A program providing scholarships for medical vocational education (nursing, midwifery, medicine) specifically for students in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).
Most online searches for “Step Up Scholarship” refer to the Florida program, so we will cover that first in detail.
Step Up For Students (Florida): Programs and Eligibility
For Florida residents, Step Up For Students manages several scholarship options funded by the state.
Recent legislative changes have expanded eligibility significantly, removing household income caps for some programs, though priority is still given to lower-income families.
1. Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC) & Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO)
These two scholarships function similarly and are often grouped together. They are designed to give families a choice beyond their assigned public school.
- What it covers: Private school tuition and fees, or transportation to a public school in a different district.
- Average Amount: Approximately $8,000 for the 2024-25 school year (amounts vary by county and grade).
- Eligibility:
- Available to Florida residents regardless of household income.
- Students must be eligible to attend a public K-12 school in Florida.
2. Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA)
Formerly known as the Gardiner Scholarship, this program allows parents to personalize the education of children with specific special needs.
- What it covers: This is an Education Savings Account (ESA). Funds can be used for private school tuition, therapists, specialists, curriculum, technology, and even college savings.
- Eligibility:
- Students must be at least 3 years old (PreK-12).
- Must have a specific diagnosis (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, or specific learning disabilities) verified by a physician or psychologist.
3. Personalized Education Program (PEP)
This is a newer option for students who are not full-time public or private school students; essentially, it serves homeschoolers.
- What it covers: Curriculum, instructional materials, tutoring, and contracted services.
- Eligibility: Florida students eligible for K-12 who are not enrolled full-time in public or private school.
4. New Worlds Scholarship Accounts
Targeting struggling readers and math students in younger grades.
- What it covers: Part-time tutoring, summer or after-school programs, and instructional materials.
- Eligibility: Varies by year, generally K-5 students struggling in reading or math.
5. The Hope Scholarship
Designed for students who have been subjected to bullying or harassment in a public school.
- What it covers: Tuition at a private school or transportation to a different public school.
Application Process for Florida Students
Applying for these scholarships requires preparation. Here is the general workflow:
Create an Account
Visit the official Step Up For Students website and create an EMA (Education Market Assistant) account.
Gather Documents
You will generally need proof of residency (driver’s license, utility bill) and a birth certificate for the student.
For FES-UA, you need medical documentation of the diagnosis. Income verification may be required for priority processing.
Apply
Submit the application through the portal.
Enroll
Once awarded, provide the award letter to your chosen participating private school or service provider.
iSTEPup Foundation: For International Medical Students
If you are looking for an international program supporting healthcare education, the criteria are very different.
The iSTEPup Foundation aims to improve global healthcare by funding ambitious students in developing nations.
What iSTEPup Covers
- Tuition Fees: Paid directly to the university or training center.
- Excluded Costs: Does not cover housing, insurance, internet, or debt from previous semesters.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
- Live in a Low or Middle-Income Country (LMIC).
- Be pursuing a career in Nursing, Midwifery, Pharmacy, Clinical Medicine, or Medicine.
- Have a “Buddy” (a mentor/intermediary, preferably a healthcare worker, who helps guide you and assists with fundraising).
How to Apply for iSTEPup
Applications are submitted via email to apply@i-step-up.com as a single PDF. Your PDF must include:
- Signed application form.
- Motivation letter and CV.
- Financial details from the institution (tuition costs).
- Contact details for your “Buddy.”
2025-2026 Application Timeline
Missing a deadline is the most common reason for scholarship rejection. Use this timeline to stay on track for both programs.
| Program | Application Window | Deadline | Notification |
| Step Up (Florida) | Opens Spring 2025 | Rolling (funds are limited; apply early) | Within 3-6 weeks of submission |
| iSTEPup (Semesters starting Aug-Dec) | Jan – April 2025 | April 30, 2025 | End of June 2025 |
| iSTEPup (Semesters starting Jan-July) | July – Oct 2025 | October 31, 2025 | End of November 2025 |
Note: For Florida scholarships, renewal families often get priority access in late winter/early spring before applications open to new families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Florida Step Up scholarship for homeschooling?
Yes. The Personalized Education Program (PEP) is designed specifically for students who are not enrolled full-time in public or private schools.
Additionally, the FES-UA scholarship can be used for curriculum and tutors if you are homeschooling a child with unique abilities.
Is the Florida scholarship income-based?
Technically, no. As of recent updates, Florida residents are eligible regardless of household income. However, priority is given to families with lower incomes.
This means higher-income families may be placed on a waitlist until all priority families are funded.
Does the iSTEPup scholarship give cash to students?
No. The iSTEPup Foundation pays tuition fees directly to the educational institution. They do not transfer money to personal bank accounts.
What happens if I miss the Step Up For Students deadline?
Florida scholarships are often awarded on a rolling basis until funds run out. If you miss the “priority” window, you can still apply, but you may be placed on a waitlist.
It is critical to apply as soon as the portal opens in the spring.
Can I apply for iSTEPup if I have already started my medical degree?
Yes, but they will not pay for semesters you have already finished or debts you already owe. They will only fund upcoming semesters.
You must disclose any outstanding debts in your application.
Take the Next Step
Do not wait until the last minute. Gather your documents, mark your calendar, and take the step toward a brighter educational future today.
Emily Carter is an academic writer with 7+ years of experience in education research, specializing in scholarships, admissions, and student calculators. She creates clear, reliable and helpful content to support students in making informed academic decisions.
