Last verified: October 2026
Can a Birmingham family pay for online courses & online schools with a CHOOSE Act ESA?
Yes. Online learning programs in approved subjects and educational subscriptions within the academic year.
CHOOSE Act ESA, enrolled ($7,000)Approved expense
Online learning programs in approved subjects and educational subscriptions within the academic year.
CHOOSE Act ESA, home education ($2,000)Approved expense
A common choice for home-educated high schoolers.
Accountability Act SGO scholarshipNot payable
Not covered.
What rules apply to online courses & online schools?
- The provider must be an approved ESP for online courses or an online private school.
- Subscriptions must fall within the academic year the funds belong to.
What counts and what doesn't
| Counts, under these rules | Doesn't count |
|---|---|
| The provider must be an approved ESP for online courses or an online private school. | Subscriptions running past June 30 of the funded year |
| Subscriptions must fall within the academic year the funds belong to. |
What does this look like in Jefferson and Shelby counties?
Local names on the online-course list include the McWane Science Center and the University of Montevallo Community School of Music; 10 online-course providers list a Jefferson or Shelby County city.
Source: ClassWallet, CHOOSE Act Alabama Parent Guide 2026-2027; CHOOSE Act (Act 2024-21). A summary, not legal advice; ALDOR's rules and ClassWallet's review decide each purchase.