OpenEd homeschool program: free funding for Outschool classes

If your family homeschools in one of 15 states, you may already qualify for a program that covers the cost of live online classes, tutoring, and enrichment on Outschool, at no cost to you. It's called OpenEd, and most families in eligible states have never heard of it.

This guide explains what OpenEd is, how the funding works, and exactly how to use it to enroll in Outschool classes.

What is OpenEd?

OpenEd is a tuition-free program for homeschool families. The idea behind it is straightforward: families shouldn't have to choose between public school, private school, or homeschooling as if they're mutually exclusive. OpenEd lets families take the best from every approach and build something that actually fits their child.

Rather than requiring families to commit to one educational model, OpenEd funds a flexible mix of resources, including live online classes like those offered on Outschool.

OpenEd operates in partnership with state ESA, microgrant, and scholarship programs. That means the funding comes from state-level education dollars, not out of your pocket.

How does OpenEd work?

Once approved, OpenEd families receive what the program calls a Learning Passport. This is a bundle of program-funded credits that can be used to enroll in approved educational experiences, including Outschool classes.

A few things worth knowing about how Learning Passports work:

• Credits are tied to the individual learner who received the state funding, not to the household
• They can be used for any program-approved Outschool class
• They may expire or be returned to the program if the learner becomes ineligible or the program ends
• They are non-transferable

Think of it as a dedicated education wallet for your child, funded by your state and spent on learning experiences you choose.

Is OpenEd available in your state?

OpenEd currently operates in 15 states. If your family lives in any of the states below, you're eligible to apply:

• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Minnesota
• Montana
• Nevada
• North Dakota
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Texas
• Utah
• Washington
• Wyoming

OpenEd continues to expand into new states. Check opened.co for the latest list.

How to apply for OpenEd

1. Check your state's eligibility at opened.co/how-it-works. Each state has its own requirements, funding amounts, and application windows.
2. Submit your application through the OpenEd website. The process varies slightly by state, but OpenEd walks families through each step.
3. Receive your Learning Passport once approved. This is your credit bundle, ready to use for Outschool classes and other approved educational expenses.
4. Start browsing Outschool and enroll in classes using your program-funded credits.

If you have questions about eligibility, the application process, or state-specific details, you can reach the OpenEd team at help@OpenEd.co.

How to use your OpenEd funds for Outschool

Once you've been approved for OpenEd and received your Learning Passport, using it for Outschool is a simple process:

1. Visit the OpenEd sign-up page for Outschool at opened.co/outschool
2. Purchase program-funded credit bundles through OpenEd. These bundles are pre-loaded Outschool credits, funded by your state program.
3. Log in to your Outschool account and browse classes. Your credits will appear in your account balance.
4. Enroll in any program-approved class. Most Outschool classes, including live group classes, one-on-one tutoring, and self-paced courses, qualify under OpenEd.

If you run into any issues during enrollment or have questions about how credits work within Outschool specifically, the Outschool Support Team can help.

What kinds of Outschool classes can OpenEd families take?

OpenEd credits can be applied to any program-approved Outschool class. In practice, that covers a wide range of subjects and formats, including:

• Live group classes in math, science, reading, writing, history, foreign languages, coding, art, and more
• One-on-one tutoring for targeted academic support or test prep
• Self-paced courses for learners who prefer to move on their own schedule
• Enrichment classes in music, drama, photography, game design, and other creative subjects

Outschool has more than 100,000 classes taught by vetted, passionate teachers. Whether your child is a third grader who needs extra help with fractions or a high schooler ready to explore AP-level content, there's something that fits.

Browse classes on Outschool

Frequently asked questions

Is OpenEd a grant?
OpenEd is funded through state ESA, microgrant, and scholarship programs, so the money originates from state education budgets. Families receive program-funded credits rather than direct cash payments. You don't apply for a grant separately. OpenEd connects you to the funding your state already makes available for homeschool families.

Can I use OpenEd for one-on-one tutoring on Outschool?
Yes. One-on-one tutoring is an approved use of OpenEd program-funded credits on Outschool. If your child needs personalized support in a specific subject, you can use your Learning Passport credits to book a private session with an Outschool teacher.

What happens if my child leaves the OpenEd program?
If your learner becomes ineligible or the program ends, unused credits may expire or be returned to the program. It's a good idea to enroll in classes shortly after receiving your credits rather than waiting.

How much funding does OpenEd provide?
Eligible families can receive up to $2,000 annually through the OpenEd program. Visit opened.co/how-it-works and select your state to see current details for your area.

Who do I contact if I have questions?
For questions about eligibility, your application, or state program details, contact OpenEd directly at help@OpenEd.co. For questions about enrolling in Outschool classes or using your credits on the platform, contact the Outschool Support Team.

Ready to get started?

If your family lives in one of the 15 OpenEd states, you may have education funding available that you haven't tapped yet. The application takes just a few minutes, and once approved, your Learning Passport credits can be used to enroll in Outschool classes right away.

Check your eligibility and apply at opened.co/outschool