What does GESA require of a participating school?
The school has to be in Georgia and accredited, or in the process of accreditation, by a recognized agency. It must show fiscal soundness, either with a year of operation or a financial information report, and comply with anti-discrimination law and health and safety codes.
When can a school apply?
During the private school windows. For 2026-27 they ran February 1-28 and October 1-31, and GESA decides within 60 days. Approved schools appear on the list and get Odyssey access for banking and enrollment.
What does a school report each year?
Test results for participating students on a GESA-approved norm-referenced test or a state assessment, attendance and course completion, enrollment dates and the funds received per student. High schools also report graduation rates.
Which accreditors appear on the metro list?
On the April 2026 list, metro participants cite GAC, Cognia, SAIS, ACSI, GAPSAC, GACS and GISA. Each school page shows the agency the state recorded.
| What it is | What it isn't |
|---|---|
| Georgia: no state license for private K-12 schools | No requirements: O.C.G.A. 20-2-690 still applies |
| Promise and SSO dollars: accredited or accrediting schools | Open to any school that enrolls a funded child |