West Virginia Hope Scholarship: Eligibility & Allowed Expenses

Match the award to the completed application date

For 2026–27, the official new-applicant schedule reduces the share of the annual award for later applications. The funding-band table below shows the dates and percentages. Notice-of-intent requirements and the actual account funding schedule still apply.

Technology purchases have replacement and quantity rules

The parent handbook updated June 25, 2026 includes technology needed for an educational program. Computers and tablets/readers have a two-calendar-year repurchase rule. It also limits iPad pencils/pointer devices, keyboards and certain other technology to single quantities. Check the exact category, prior purchases and the student’s use before choosing equipment.

Use the portal, TheoPay and authorized reimbursement instructions

TheoPay allows qualifying purchases from enabled vendors through the student’s Hope portal. A vendor listing does not approve every item in a cart. Reimbursements are limited to the Board’s authorized categories and require itemized records; do not assume any out-of-pocket purchase can be reimbursed. Use the current handbook and account instructions for the specific expense.

West Virginia Hope Scholarship

Hope is an education savings account scholarship for eligible West Virginia students pursuing approved education outside the public-school system.

Program sources reviewed September 23, 2026

Who can qualify

The official 2026–27 guidance includes students already in private school or homeschool. Check residency, student eligibility and the current notice-of-intent requirements.

Award and budget

Funding depends on when a completed application is submitted and the applicable award schedule. Read the funding table for the student’s application date.

How home education fits

Families educating at home must follow the Hope participation and notice-of-intent requirements. General homeschool registration alone is not a Hope award.

Curriculum and permitted expenses

The current handbook includes curriculum, educational services and technology needed for an educational program. Computer/tablet repurchases have a two-calendar-year rule; iPad pencils/pointer devices have quantity restrictions. Use the portal/authorized purchasing route and the Board’s reimbursement policy.

Applying and using funds

For new 2026–27 applicants, the official windows correspond to 100%, 75%, 50% or 25% funding depending on the completed application date. A Hope notice of intent and program requirements also affect funding. Follow the current portal and official instructions.

• West Virginia Hope: current FAQ and application bands
• Hope parent handbook, updated June 25, 2026

Federal scholarships starting in 2027

West Virginia has made an advance election to participate in the Education Freedom Tax Credit (also called the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit) for 2027. The Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC/FSTC) is separate from the state options above. ECCA refers to its earlier legislative proposal.

IRS participation list, as of 2026-09-14: advance election recorded. An advance election does not establish an approved SGO list, an open student application or an awarded scholarship. Check the Education Freedom Tax Credit guide and how to find an SGO for the next steps.

Does filing a homeschool notice enroll my child in Hope Scholarship?

No. Hope Scholarship has its own application and participation requirements. Follow the scholarship administrator’s process and confirm the education arrangement with the appropriate school officials.

Can West Virginia homeschool families use these options?

Hope families educating at home must follow the program’s notice-of-intent and education requirements. Existing homeschool enrollment does not automatically create a funded account. Check the application timing band and authorized expenses before relying on a full-year budget.