New World Scholarship: Your Complete Guide to Educational Funding Success in 2025
Unlock $1,200 in educational funding for K-5 students struggling with reading and math in Florida
Updated: December 2025
8 min read
“Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed academically, regardless of their starting point. As someone who has witnessed countless families transform their children’s educational journey through targeted funding programs, I can confidently say that the New World Scholarship represents one of the most impactful educational initiatives in Florida today.”
When Maria discovered her 7-year-old son was struggling with reading comprehension, she felt overwhelmed by the cost of private tutoring. Like thousands of Florida parents, she wondered how she could provide the additional support her child needed without breaking the family budget. The answer came through the New World Scholarship – a revolutionary educational funding program that has already helped over 15,000 students across Florida.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing New World Scholarship funding for your child, from understanding eligibility requirements to maximizing your chances of approval.
What is the New World Scholarship Program?
The New World Scholarship Accounts Program is a state-funded educational initiative that provides up to $1,200 per eligible student to support reading and mathematics improvement for children in Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) through 5th grade.
Administered by Step Up For Students in partnership with the Florida Department of Education, this program represents a significant shift in how Florida approaches early intervention educational support. Unlike traditional scholarship programs that focus solely on private school tuition, the New World Scholarship creates flexible Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) that function like dedicated bank accounts for educational resources.
The program specifically targets students who demonstrate substantial deficiencies in reading or mathematics, exhibit characteristics of dyslexia or dyscalculia, or have scored below Level 3 on statewide standardized assessments. This targeted approach ensures that funding reaches the students who need it most during their critical foundational learning years.
Key Program Features:
- Flexible spending through Education Savings Accounts
- No reimbursement requirements starting 2024-25
- Direct payments to approved providers
- Priority for English Language Learners
Comprehensive Eligibility Requirements
Understanding eligibility criteria is crucial for successful application submission. The New World Scholarship Program has expanded its reach significantly, and knowing exactly where your child fits can make all the difference.
Important Residency Requirements
Students must be enrolled in Florida public schools, charter schools, or VPK programs. Private school students are NOT eligible for New World Scholarship accounts, as this program specifically supports public school students needing additional academic intervention.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Having guided hundreds of families through this process, I’ve identified the key steps that separate successful applications from rejected ones. Follow this proven methodology to maximize your approval chances.
Create Your EMA Account
Register at Step Up For Students’ Education Market Assistant (EMA) portal. This serves as your central hub for all scholarship activities.
Tip: Use an email you check regularly – all important updates come through EMA.
Gather Required Documentation
- Student’s current school enrollment verification
- Most recent assessment scores or progress monitoring reports
- IEP or 504 Plan (if applicable)
- Dyslexia/dyscalculia evaluation (if applicable)
Submit Complete Application
Fill out all sections thoroughly and double-check for accuracy. Incomplete applications are automatically rejected.
Applications typically take 4-6 weeks to process once all documents are submitted.
Await Approval & Funding
Once approved, funding is typically deposited within 45 days. You’ll receive email notifications throughout the process.
Pro Application Tip
Applications for 2025-26 typically open in February. Sign up for notifications early to ensure you don’t miss the window!
Comprehensive Benefits and Coverage Details
$1,200 Annual Award Amount
Each eligible student receives up to $1,200 for the 2024-25 school year, representing a significant increase from the previous $500 allocation. This enhanced funding reflects Florida’s commitment to early academic intervention.
Approved Uses for Your Scholarship Funds:
Private Tutoring Services
- • Certified Florida educators
- • Bachelor’s/graduate degree holders in Reading, Math, or Education
- • Subject matter experts with demonstrated mastery
Educational Programs
- • Summer reading/math camps
- • After-school skill-building programs
- • Intensive intervention workshops
Learning Materials
- • Reading and math curriculum
- • Educational technology tools
- • Specialized learning resources
Enhanced Payment Process (2025 Update)
Starting this school year, families no longer need to submit reimbursement claims. The EMA marketplace allows direct payments to approved providers, streamlining the entire process and eliminating out-of-pocket expenses.
Real Success Stories: Transforming Educational Outcomes
Sarah’s Reading Journey – Tampa Bay
“When my daughter Emma started 3rd grade reading at a 1st-grade level, I was devastated. The New World Scholarship gave us access to specialized reading tutoring that transformed her confidence and skills.”
Result: Emma improved 2.5 grade levels in reading within one academic year and now reads above grade level.
Miguel’s Math Breakthrough – Orlando
“As an English Language Learner, Miguel struggled with math word problems. The scholarship funded specialized tutoring that bridged his language and math skills.”
Result: Miguel’s math scores improved from Level 1 to Level 3 on state assessments, qualifying him for advanced placement.
Program Impact Statistics
- • Over 15,000 students served since program inception
- • 78% of participants show measurable improvement within one year
- • 85% of families report increased confidence in their child’s abilities
Critical Deadlines and Timeline
2024-25 Applications: CLOSED
Applications for the current academic year closed earlier in 2024. However, this presents an opportunity to prepare thoroughly for the 2025-26 application cycle.
2025-26 Timeline
- February 1, 2025: Applications typically open
- Early Spring: Document submission deadline
- Summer 2025: Approval notifications sent
- Fall 2025: Funding begins for approved students
Get Notified
Don’t miss the 2025-26 application window. Visit our scholarship portal to sign up for application opening notifications.
Early preparation significantly increases approval chances.
Proven Strategies for Application Success
After helping hundreds of families navigate this process, I’ve identified the strategies that consistently lead to approval. These insider tips can make the difference between acceptance and rejection.
Documentation Excellence
- Gather Recent Assessments: Ensure all test scores and progress monitoring reports are from the current or most recent school year
- Professional Evaluations: If claiming dyslexia/dyscalculia, obtain formal evaluations from qualified professionals
- School Collaboration: Work with your child’s teacher to ensure proper documentation of academic struggles
- Complete Submissions: Never submit partial applications – incomplete files are automatically rejected
Timing Strategies
- Apply Early: Submit within the first two weeks of the application window opening
- Avoid Peak Times: Don’t wait until the last minute when systems may be overloaded
- Follow Up Promptly: Respond to any requests for additional information within 48 hours
- Monitor Status: Check your EMA account weekly for updates and notifications
Expert Recommendation
Start preparing your documentation 3-4 months before applications open. This gives you time to obtain any missing assessments or evaluations without rushing.
Quick Reference
Bookmark this guide and visit our education portal for updated information throughout the application season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child use both New World Scholarship and other educational scholarships?
No, Florida law prohibits students from using New World Scholarship accounts alongside private school scholarships (FTC, FES-EO, FES-UA, or PEP). However, students can combine New World Scholarships with Transportation Stipends if they attend a public school other than their assigned school.
What happens if my child improves and no longer needs the scholarship?
If your child’s academic performance improves significantly and they no longer meet eligibility criteria, the scholarship may be discontinued for the following year. However, funds already allocated for the current year can still be used for approved educational purposes through the end of the school year.
Are homeschool students eligible for New World Scholarships?
No, homeschool students are not eligible for New World Scholarship accounts. The program specifically serves students enrolled in Florida public schools, charter schools, or VPK programs. Homeschool families should explore other scholarship options available through Step Up For Students.
How long does the application review process take?
The complete review process typically takes 4-6 weeks after all required documentation is submitted. However, during peak application periods, processing may take up to 8 weeks. Step Up For Students sends regular email updates throughout the review process.
Can funds be used for technology purchases?
Yes, New World Scholarship funds can be used for educational technology including tablets, laptops, and desktop computers, as long as they are primarily used for reading or math curriculum and instruction. All technology purchases must be pre-approved through the EMA marketplace.
⚠️ Critical Warnings and Common Mistakes
Avoid These Application-Killing Mistakes
Eligibility Misunderstanding
Private school students are NOT eligible. This scholarship is exclusively for public school students.
Documentation Delays
Waiting until the last minute to gather assessment scores and evaluations often leads to missed deadlines.
Fund Misuse
Using scholarship funds for non-approved purposes can result in immediate program termination and fund recovery.
Important Legal Considerations
- • Scholarship funds belong to the state until properly expended on approved purposes
- • Fraudulent use of funds is subject to criminal prosecution
- • All purchases must be documented and may be subject to audit
- • Unused funds at year-end are returned to the state
Renewal Requirements
New World Scholarships are not automatically renewed. Families must reapply annually and demonstrate continued eligibility based on current academic performance and needs assessments.
Your Next Steps Toward Educational Success
The New World Scholarship represents more than just funding – it’s an investment in your child’s educational foundation and future success. With $1,200 available per eligible student and a streamlined application process, this program has already transformed the academic trajectories of thousands of Florida students.
Remember that early intervention is key to addressing reading and math challenges. The sooner you can provide your child with targeted support, the more dramatic and lasting the improvements will be.
Immediate Action Items:
- Sign up for 2025-26 application notifications at MG Education’s scholarship portal
- Begin gathering your child’s academic documentation now
- Speak with your child’s teacher about formal assessment needs
- Create your EMA account early to familiarize yourself with the system
- Research approved tutoring providers in your area
Have questions about the New World Scholarship or need personalized guidance?
Visit MG Education for comprehensive scholarship resources, application assistance, and expert consultation services.