Florida FES-UA Parent Guides
Plain-language resources to help you understand your scholarship and use every dollar for your child.
Florida's FES-UA scholarship can be confusing — matrix levels, EMA accounts, provider authorizations, denied purchases. These guides cut through the noise so you know exactly what you're working with and how to use it effectively.
Available Guides
The Complete FES-UA Guide: Using Step Up For Students for Tutoring
Everything you need to know — matrix levels and funding amounts, how EMA works, finding approved providers, step-by-step direct pay setup, common mistakes, and FAQ.
Florida IEP Rights: What Parents Can Demand
Your legal rights under IDEA in Florida — evaluation timelines, placement decisions, prior written notice, and how to push back when the school isn't meeting your child's needs.
Getting a Higher Matrix Level: How to Document Your Child's Needs
Many families receive less FES-UA funding than their child qualifies for. This guide shows how to request evaluations and document needs to get the matrix level (and scholarship amount) your child deserves.
What You Can (and Can't) Buy With FES-UA — Complete EMA Spending Guide
A full breakdown of approved expense categories under FES-UA: tutoring, therapies, curriculum, technology, equipment, and more. Plus what's explicitly not covered and how to avoid denied charges.
Quick Answers
Most common FES-UA questions — short answers, more detail in the guides above.
How much is my FES-UA scholarship worth?
Depends on your child's matrix level — ranges from roughly $8,000 (Level 1) to $20,000–$30,000+ (Level 6). Check your balance in the Step Up parent portal. Full matrix breakdown →
How do I pay a tutoring provider with FES-UA?
Through EMA — the provider must be registered in the Step Up system. You authorize them in your parent portal, they submit invoices directly, and EMA pays them. No out-of-pocket. How EMA works →
Is Special Education Resource LLC FES-UA approved?
Yes — we are a fully registered EMA provider with Step Up For Students. Search "Special Education Resource" in the Find Providers section of your portal to authorize us. Get started →
Can I use FES-UA for online tutoring?
Yes. Online tutoring from a registered EMA provider is fully eligible. There's no requirement for in-person services. All our tutoring is delivered online statewide.
My EMA purchase was denied — now what?
Common causes: provider not registered, insufficient balance, service category issue, or scholarship renewal needed. Troubleshoot denials →
How do I check my scholarship balance?
Log into your Step Up parent portal → select your child → EMA Account. You'll see annual award, amount spent, and current available balance. Full instructions →
Have a question that's not covered here?
We work with FES-UA families every day. If you're confused about your scholarship, EMA, or how to get started with tutoring — just ask.
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