In the 2023 legislative session, the Utah State Legislature passed HB 215 – Funding for Teacher Salaries and Optional Education Opportunities, which created the Utah Fits All scholarship program.

In 2024, the sponsors of last year’s HB 215 hope to increase the program’s funding.

With applications for the scholarship program opening soon and set to take effect in the fall of 2024, here is a brief overview of the program and what parents need to know.

What does the Utah Fits All Scholarship provide?

UFA establishes education savings accounts for Utah students, allotting up to $8,000 scholarships for up to 5,000 students. The program also increased teacher compensation by $6,000 ($4,200 of which is salary and $1,800 in benefits). The 2024 proposal to increase funding for the program is trying to accommodate the large demand from families that hope to take advantage of the scholarship.

 “Education choice is about the broadest range of options possible – it includes private options, home-based options and more,” said Sutherland Institute’s education policy fellow, Christine Fairbanks, when asked about the program.

“A Utah Fits All scholarship allows parents to create an education as unique as the child.”

How is the scholarship program funded?

The scholarship is entirely paid for by the state income tax fund, and it will not borrow or utilize any federal or local funds.

How can families sign up for the program?

The signup portal goes live on Feb. 28 and will be open to applications until April 15. There is no benefit to waiting, so those interested are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible to be considered. Families can sign up directly on the Utah State Board of Education website.

For a more in-depth perspective on this article, read our Insights piece here.