Last verified: October 2026
Can a Pinellas family pay for field trips and museum admission with scholarship funds?
Student admission to museums, aquariums and parks can be an educational expense; extras like food and parking cannot.
Student admission to listed cultural venues and parks.
Same listed venues.
School trip fees are a school fee; other admissions from leftover funds.
Which rules apply?
- Buy the student's ticket only, from the venue or an authorized seller.
- Out-of-state trips may need pre-authorization.
What is allowed and what isn't
| Allowed | Not allowed | |
|---|---|---|
| Unique Abilities (FES-UA) | Yes | — |
| PEP (home-directed account) | Yes | — |
| Private School Scholarship (FTC/FES-EO) | Yes | — |
What is excluded?
- Parking, food and souvenirs
- Resale tickets
What should Pinellas families know?
Pinellas has museum and park options within a short drive: art museums in downtown St. Petersburg, a marine aquarium in Clearwater and state parks on the north county islands. Keep the student-priced receipt.
How is it paid?
Look in Step Up's marketplace first, then pay an approved provider directly from the account; otherwise pay by card, keep the itemized receipt and request reimbursement. Anything not clearly eligible needs pre-authorization before you buy.
Related questions
Summary only, not legal advice; your scholarship organization's handbook controls.