At a glance
Nebraska does not currently have a private-school-choice program. The legislature had created a tax-credit scholarship program (Opportunity Scholarships), but voters repealed it by referendum in November 2024. Nebraska offers public choice through option enrollment.
This state's choice programs
There is no active ESA, voucher, or tax-credit scholarship for private school in Nebraska after the 2024 repeal. Families seeking a private school 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
Nebraska’s tax-credit scholarship was repealed by voters in 2024.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- Does Nebraska have a private-school-choice program?No — Nebraska voters repealed the state’s tax-credit scholarship in 2024; only public choice remains.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- Private choice?No — repealed by referendum (2024)
- WasOpportunity Scholarships tax-credit
- Public choiceOption enrollment; charter framework
- HomeschoolLegal (as exempt schools)
- Confirm withYour district
Where to confirm
Confirm current programs and eligibility with the official source: