At a glance
Illinois’ private-school-choice program has expired. The state’s Invest in Kids tax-credit scholarship program ended on January 1, 2024, making Illinois the first state to roll back a private-choice program. Illinois still offers public choice (charters, magnets, open enrollment).
This state's choice programs
There is currently no active private-school-choice program in Illinois. The former Invest in Kids tax-credit scholarship expired after the legislature did not renew it. Families seeking a private school now pay tuition (with financial aid often available).
Public school choice, too
Remember: “school choice” also includes public options available in every state:
- Open enrollment / transfersAttend a public school outside your zone, where allowed (see our finding-your-school guide)
- Charter schoolsTuition-free public schools of choice (where available)
- Magnet schoolsTuition-free public schools with a specialized focus
- HomeschoolingLegal in all 50 states (rules vary)
Legal & legislative status
The Invest in Kids program expired in 2024. New proposals may appear — confirm the current status before assuming a program exists.
Tips for families
- Confirm the current programThis area changes fast — verify eligibility, amounts, and deadlines
- Watch the deadlines & capsMany programs have windows and funding caps
- Understand what’s coveredESAs are flexible; vouchers usually cover tuition only
- Check your school participatesNot every private school accepts every program
- Combine with school aidChoice funds can stack with a school’s own financial aid
Frequently asked questions
- Does Illinois have a private-school-choice program?Not currently — Illinois’s Invest in Kids tax-credit program expired in 2024; only public choice remains.
- What’s the difference between an ESA and a voucher?A voucher pays a private school directly; an ESA is a flexible parent-managed account for many approved expenses.
- What is a tax-credit scholarship?Donors get a tax credit for giving to organizations that fund private-school scholarships.
- Is there public school choice too?Yes — open enrollment, charters, and magnets (plus homeschooling).
- Where do I confirm the details?On the official state program site (see below).
At a glance
- Private choice?Program expired (2024)
- WasInvest in Kids tax-credit scholarship
- NowPublic choice only
- Public choiceCharters, magnets, open enrollment
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm current programs and eligibility with the official source: