You’ve made the math work year after year — because a Jewish education was never optional for your children, even when the tuition bill said otherwise. Starting in 2027, a new federal scholarship program can carry part of that weight. It’s paid directly to your school, it isn’t taxed, and most working families qualify.
Requirement 1: Your child is K–12.
Old enough to enroll in a public elementary or secondary school. They don’t need to attend one.
Requirement 2: Your household income is within the limit.
At or below 300% of the median income for your area, measured for the calendar year before you apply.
Requirement 3: Your school partners with JEFA.
In a state that has joined the program. Not sure? Ask us and we’ll check.
See if your family is eligible.
Tell us how many people live in your home and where you live. We’ll show you the highest yearly household income that can qualify in your area. The limit is higher in places where living costs more.
An estimated 90% of K–12 students nationwide live in households that meet the income limit. The limit rises with local incomes, so families in high-cost areas can earn more and still qualify.
A scholarship is paid straight to your school and credited to your tuition account. No money passes through your hands, and none of it is taxed.
Tuition and fees
The tuition bill itself, and the fees your school requires.
Tutoring and support
Academic tutoring, and services for students with special needs.
Books and technology
Books, supplies and the computer your child uses for school.
Pre-register.
Two minutes, no obligation. We keep you posted from here.
The credit opens.
Donors begin giving, and your school’s scholarship fund starts to fill.
Applications open.
School by school. We email you the moment yours does.
It depends on the size of your school’s fund and the number of eligible families that year. Your school and JEFA set award amounts each cycle, which is also why encouraging your community to give matters.
Often, yes. The federal scholarship is a separate program. The two just can’t pay for the same cost twice.
Yes. You can give and apply in the same year. You can choose your child’s school, but federal law bars directing a donation to your own child. JEFA makes every award.
Not yet. Recommend the school and we’ll email you the moment it joins.
Scholarships open school by school from mid-2027. Leave your details and we’ll email you when they open in your state and when your school joins, along with everything you’ll need to apply.
Is your school not a JEFA partner yet? Tell us its name and tick the box, and we’ll send you a one-page explainer to hand to your head of school. We’ll follow up with them too.