What financial aid is available for private school in Mississippi?

Mississippi has 2 financial aid programs for private school: Education Scholarship Account (ESA): ESA for students with disabilities and low-income families. Up to $6,500/year. School-based financial aid: Church-funded tuition assistance at religious schools. About 35% of private school families in Mississippi receive some form of tuition reduction.

How much does private school cost in Mississippi?

Average private school tuition in Mississippi is $7,400/year. With financial aid, the average family pays significantly less. 35% of families receive some form of aid.

State Voucher / ESA Available

Private School Financial Aid in Mississippi

2026 programs, income limits, and how to apply

Mississippi has a state-funded voucher or ESA program, plus 1 other aid source. Average tuition is $7,400/year and 35% of families receive some form of tuition reduction.

Avg Tuition

$7,400

per year

Aid Programs

available

Families Aided

35%

receive some aid

Avg Aid Award

$3,400

need-based

Check Your Eligibility

Enter your household income to see which Mississippi programs you might qualify for.

Annual household income ($)

School-age children

Gross income before taxes. Income limits shown for a family of 4; actual limits scale with household size.

Mississippi Financial Aid Programs

All available programs for private school families in 2026

Education Scholarship Account (ESA)

ESA for students with disabilities and low-income families. Up to $6,500/year

Income limit: $65,000/year (family of 4)

$6,500

/year max

School-based financial aid

Church-funded tuition assistance at religious schools

Varies

by school

The Full Picture in Mississippi

Mississippi's ESA is income-based and was originally for students with disabilities. It expanded in 2024 to include low-income families in low-performing school zones. If you qualify ($65K limit for family of 4), the $6,500 covers most of the average tuition. For families above the income limit, school-based aid is the only option — most Mississippi private schools are Christian academies with church-funded tuition assistance.

Want voucher-specific details? See our Mississippi school voucher eligibility page for income thresholds by household size, application links, and enrollment deadlines.

How to Apply for Aid in Mississippi

Apply for state programs first

Start with the state voucher/ESA. It's the biggest single award. Then apply for tax credit scholarships if available.

Apply for school-based aid at every school

Most schools use TADS, FACTS, or SSS for financial aid assessment. Apply by January-February for the following school year. School aid stacks with state programs.

Check private scholarship organizations

Local nonprofits, community foundations, and religious organizations often provide additional scholarships. Search "[your city] private school scholarships" for local options.