Last verified: October 2026
Can a Pinellas family pay for part-time tutoring with scholarship funds?
A tutor is the most flexible thing a Florida scholarship account can buy, as long as the tutor holds one of the credentials Step Up recognizes.
Part-time tutoring is an authorized FES-UA expense, in person or online.
Tutoring is one of the main reasons families choose PEP; approved tutors can be paid directly from the account.
Only once tuition and required fees at the school are covered, and only with a credentialed tutor.
Which rules apply?
- The tutor needs at least one recognized credential, for example a valid Florida educator's certificate or a bachelor's or graduate degree in the subject being taught.
- Certifications in recognized research-based programs also qualify, which is how many structured-literacy tutors meet the rule.
- Pay through the provider platform or file a documented reimbursement; cash to an individual is not reimbursed.
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?
- A tutor with none of the recognized credentials
- Cash payments without documentation
What should Pinellas families know?
Pinellas families often put a tutor next to a regular school day rather than in place of it. Before the first session, ask whether the tutor is already set up for direct payment so you never front the cost.
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.