This article is for Iowa families to understand the important dates and deadlines for the 2026–27 Students First ESA Program.
| Date | Milestone | Details |
|---|---|---|
April 16, 2026 |
Iowa ESA Applications Open |
Parents and guardians can begin applying for an ESA at 8:00 a.m.Apply Now |
June 30, 2026 |
ESA Applications Close |
The deadline to submit an ESA application for the 2026-27 school year is 11:59 p.m. |
September 30, 2026 |
Enrollment & Payment Deadline |
To receive and retain ESA funds, each participant must (1) be attending an accredited nonpublic school in Iowa, and (2) pay tuition and fees through the ESA portal by 11:59 p.m. |
October 1, 2026 |
Eligibility Finalized |
Any student with an approved ESA application who is not attending an Iowa accredited nonpublic school or who did not pay fall tuition and fees through the ESA portal by September 30, 2026 |
December 1, 2026 |
Spring ESA Funds Available |
Spring ESA funds are available. |
February 1, 2027 |
Spring Tuition & Fees Deadline |
Parents must pay spring tuition and fees through the ESA
|
Additional program dates for the 2026–27 school year will be shared as they are confirmed. Please check back here for updates or contact Odyssey Support if you have questions.