Can a Duval family pay for internet at home with scholarship funds?
Florida is one of the few states where scholarship money can pay a family's home internet bill.
| Program | Status | What the rule says |
|---|---|---|
| Unique Abilities (FES-UA) | Allowed | In-home internet service, including a mobile hotspot, at the address on the application. |
| PEP (family-directed account) | Allowed | The same rule, with no proration for family use. |
| Private School Scholarship (FTC/FES-EO) | Allowed from money left after tuition | Allowed from leftover funds under the Internet Resources section. |
Which rules apply to internet at home purchases?
- The service address must match the residential address on the student's application.
- Step Up's September 16, 2026 revision removed streaming from the Internet section; streaming can still qualify as educational software or subscriptions.
What is not allowed under internet at home?
- Business internet plans
How do Jacksonville families use internet at home?
Send the provider's invoice showing the Jacksonville service address, and keep it with the account's other receipts.
How does a family buy internet at home with scholarship money?
Browse MyScholarShop first, because its items are pre-approved, then search Find Providers in EMA to pay a tutor, therapist or instructor directly. Failing that, pay on a card and send in the itemized receipt for repayment. Anything not on the eligible list needs permission beforehand, and requests for 2026-27 stop on May 28, 2027.
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Sources: Step Up For Students purchasing guides for FES-UA, PEP and the Private School Scholarship (2026-27) and its summary of handbook and guide changes. These are summaries and not legal advice; Step Up's handbook controls.