Last verified: October 2026
Can a Pinellas family pay for sports lessons and p.e. with scholarship funds?
Lessons, team fees and some P.E. equipment are payable; spectator tickets are not.
Unique Abilities (FES-UA)Eligible
Lessons, team fees and listed equipment.
PEP (home-directed account)Eligible
Same categories.
Private School Scholarship (FTC/FES-EO)Only from leftover funds
From leftover funds; athletic fees are a school fee.
Which rules apply?
- Equipment purchases carry frequency limits.
- Activities outside Florida 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?
- Tickets to sporting events
- Family memberships beyond the student's share
What should Pinellas families know?
Swim and sailing lessons are natural Pinellas P.E. choices; keep a receipt that shows instruction, not a general membership.
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.