Is Your State Paying for Tutoring? A Look at Government-Funded Programs

For parents searching for extra academic help, knowing which states offer free tutoring is crucial in securing the right resources for their child. Some tutoring assistance programs target students from low-income households, while others focus on students struggling in core subjects. Yet, other states offer funding to all students. With each state having different eligibility requirements and application processes, navigating these options can feel overwhelming.

That’s why this guide simplifies the process—helping families understand which states offer free tutoring, how to apply, and how Firefly Tutors can assist in connecting students with expert educators. With the proper support, every child can access state-funded tutoring programs and reach their full academic potential.

Why State-Funded Tutoring Matters

As students across the U.S. work to recover from pandemic-related disruptions and academic setbacks, state-funded tutoring programs have become more important than ever. Research shows that high-impact tutoring can significantly accelerate learning, helping students regain lost instructional time while improving their confidence and academic performance.

State and federal initiatives, such as the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds, have provided resources for states to expand tutoring assistance programs. These efforts ensure that financial barriers do not prevent students from receiving the academic support they need.

The Benefits of State-Funded Tutoring

• Closes learning gaps – Personalized instruction helps students catch up in key subjects.
• Provides free or low-cost resources – Ensures financial barriers do not prevent students from receiving help.
• Supports struggling students – Many programs target students who score below grade level in math and reading.
• Improves test scores and engagement – Research shows that state-funded tutoring programs improve academic performance and overall student motivation.

Which States Offer Free Tutoring?

1. Florida: Step Up for Students & High-Impact Tutoring

Program: Step Up for Students Tutoring Grants
Who Qualifies?

• PreK–5th students eligible for the New Worlds Scholarship
• K–12 students eligible for the Family Empowerment Scholarship
• Students with special needs (Unique Abilities Program)
• Low-income families qualifying for free or reduced lunch
• Home school students are eligible for the PEP Scholarship

How to Apply:
Parents can apply through Step Up for Students, which offers scholarships and tutoring assistance programs.

2. California: Statewide High-Impact Tutoring & Enrichment Grants

Programs:

• California Free Online Tutoring & District-Based Tutoring
• Enrichment Funds for Education Support which may include in-home tutoring or online.

Who Qualifies?

• TK (transitional kindergarten) –12 homeschool students
• Low-income students and those affected by learning loss
• Families seeking additional educational support through enrichment grants

How to Apply:

• Families can check California’s Department of Education for eligibility and enrollment options.
• Parents can also apply for enrichment funds through local school charters, districts and community partnerships like Firefly Tutors.

3. Arizona: Achievement Tutoring Program

Program: Arizona Free Achievement Tutoring
Who Qualifies?

• K–12 students who score below proficiency in state assessments
• Title I students and those at risk of academic failure

How to Apply:
Parents can access tutoring through the Arizona Department of Education.

Program: (ESA) Empowerment Scholarship Account

Who Qualifies?

• Parents seeking flexible education options outside the public school system
• Covers private school tuition, tutoring, textbooks, and other education expenses

How to Apply?
Parents can apply through the Arizona Department of Education.

4. Tennessee: TN ALL Corps Tutoring Initiative

Program: Tennessee Accelerating Literacy and Learning Corps (TN ALL Corps)
Who Qualifies?

• K–8 students scoring below grade level in math and reading

How to Apply:
Visit Tennessee’s Education Department for enrollment options.

5. Louisiana: Accelerate Tutoring Program

Program: Louisiana High-Dosage Tutoring
Who Qualifies?

• Grades 3–8 students scoring below mastery in ELA and math

How to Apply:
Parents can contact their school district or visit Louisiana’s Department of Education for details.

6. New Mexico: State Tutoring Initiative

Program: Statewide High-Impact Tutoring
Who Qualifies?

• K–5 students needing English Language Arts (ELA) support
• Grades 6–12 students needing math tutoring

How to Apply:
The New Mexico Department of Education has partnered with TNTP for tutoring. More details can be found on their website.

7. Ohio: High-Quality Tutoring Initiative

Program: State-Approved Tutoring Programs
Who Qualifies?

• Students requiring academic recovery and acceleration
• Those eligible for Title I services

How to Apply:
Check the Ohio Department of Education for tutoring providers and application details.

8. Oklahoma: OSDE Tutoring Partnership

Program: Free Varsity Tutors Access
Who Qualifies?

• All K–12 students in Oklahoma public schools
• Includes 24/7 on-demand tutoring, test prep, and college readiness support

How to Apply:
Families can apply through the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

9. Rhode Island: RIDE-Approved Tutoring

Program: Free Virtual Tutoring via Schoolhouse.world
Who Qualifies?

• Students needing personalized academic support
• Programs aligned with EdReports curriculum standards

How to Apply:
Find enrollment details on the Rhode Island Department of Education website.

10. Washington: UPchieve Partnership

Program: Free Online Tutoring for Low-Income High School Students
Who Qualifies?

• Public high school students from low-income backgrounds
• Subjects include math, science, and college counseling

How to Apply:
Students can apply through UPchieve.

11. Arkansas

Program: Education Freedom Accounts (Part of the LEARNS Act)
Who Qualifies?

• Specific requirements under development; generally aimed at K–12 students in public schools

How to Apply:
Visit the Arkansas Department of Education for details.

12. Idaho

Program: Empowering Parents
Who Qualifies?

• K–12 students are eligible

How to Apply:
Apply through Empowering Parents on the Idaho government site.

13. Indiana

Program: Several Programs (including for students with special needs & Career Scholarship Program)
Who Qualifies?

• Varies by program (e.g., students with IEPs, those seeking career/technical pathways)

How to Apply:
Visit Indiana’s government education portal for information and links to relevant programs.

14. Iowa

Program: ESA Program
Who Qualifies?

• For students enrolling in participating private schools

How to Apply:
Check the Iowa Department of Education for the latest application instructions.

15. Montana

Program: Education Savings Accounts
Who Qualifies?

• Offers funds to customize education (guidelines may vary)

How to Apply:
Refer to the Montana Office of Public Instruction for specifics.

16. New Hampshire

Program: Education Freedom Accounts
Who Qualifies?

• Low and middle-income students

How to Apply:
Visit the New Hampshire Department of Education for qualification criteria and enrollment details.

17. North Carolina

Program: Multiple Funding Options (e.g., Opportunity Scholarship Program)
Who Qualifies?

• Generally, K–12 students from families below a certain income threshold or in underperforming districts

How to Apply:

• Start with the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority for Opportunity Scholarships
• More information can also be found via the NC Department of Public Instruction.

How to Apply for Tutoring Assistance Programs

1. Check Eligibility

Before applying, confirm whether your child meets the program’s eligibility criteria:

• Academic Performance – Many state-funded tutoring programs prioritize students performing below grade level in math and reading.
• Income Requirements – Some state-funded free tutoring programs focus on low-income families.
• School Enrollment – Most programs require students to attend public schools, though some include private or public charter school students.
• Learning Needs – Students with IEPs or 504 plans may receive additional tutoring support.

2. Find Available Programs

• Visit your state’s Department of Education website to explore current tutoring assistance programs.
• Contact your child’s school district to inquire about state-funded tutoring programs.
• Check with local libraries, nonprofits, and community centers, as many partner with states to offer tutoring.
• Look for online learning platforms that states partner with for free tutoring programs by state.

3. Complete the Application

• Gather required documents (report cards, test scores, income verification, school enrollment proof).
• Submit the application online or through your child’s school district.
• Select a state-approved tutor (if required).
• Receive confirmation and schedule tutoring sessions.

4. Start Using the Tutoring Services

• Schedule regular sessions to maintain consistency.
• Track progress by requesting updates from tutors.
• Utilize additional learning tools like apps and practice worksheets to reinforce learning.

How Firefly Tutors Can Help

Navigating free tutoring programs by state can be confusing, but Firefly Tutors is here to simplify the process.

How We Support Families

• Finding the Right Program – We research state-funded tutoring programs to help parents choose the best fit.
• Guiding Through the Application Process – We assist with eligibility verification, paperwork, and enrollment.
• Connecting Students with Expert Tutors – We provide one-on-one tutoring in math, reading, science, and more.

Why Choose Firefly Tutors?

• Parent Choice - We support parent choice for their student's academic journey.
• Experienced Educators – Our college educated tutors have a strong track record of improving student success. Relating the curriculum to students in a way that makes sense to them is key.
• Flexible Learning Options – We offer in-home and online tutoring.
• Specialized Programs – We support students with IEPs, learning differences, and special education needs, AP and Honors students.
• Aligned with State & Common Core Curriculum – Ensures students stay on track academically.

Need help accessing a state-funded tutoring program? Contact Firefly Tutors today to get started!

Don’t Miss Out on Free Tutoring!

State-funded tutoring programs provide a critical opportunity for students to regain lost learning, close achievement gaps, and build confidence. With funding from programs like the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), more states are investing in high-impact tutoring initiatives to support students in math, reading, and other core subjects. If you’re wondering which states offer free tutoring, now is the time to explore your options and apply before funding runs out.

To ensure your child gets the help they need, visit your state’s Department of Education website, reach out to school administrators, and check local tutoring assistance programs. Many states have application deadlines and limited funding, so acting early can improve your child’s chances of receiving free tutoring programs by state.

At Firefly Tutors, we simplify the process by guiding families through eligibility, application support, and connecting students with expert tutors. Whether your child qualifies for a state-funded tutoring program or needs personalized support, we’re here to help. Don’t wait—contact Firefly Tutors today to ensure your child receives the academic support they deserve!