Colorado
Opted in on January 29, 2026
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Jared Polis
Governor , D
“It's a no-brainer for the state to take advantage of the federal tax credit scholarship program. It's a real boom of investment in kids.”
Governor Jared Polis, November 2025 (The Colorado Sun)
FSTC Status in Colorado
Governor Jared Polis (D) submitted IRS Form 15714 on January 29, 2026. Notable as one of only two Democratic governors to opt in.
Great news!
Colorado has opted in to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit (FSTC).
IRS Form 15714 Advance Election submitted January 29, 2026. Governor announced intent December 5, 2025.
ACE Scholarships (Denver-based, need-based K-12) and Seeds of Hope (Catholic school scholarships) already operate in Colorado.
FSTC Readiness Checklist for Colorado Schools
Colorado has opted in to the FSTC. Use this 7-step checklist to prepare your school for participation.
Confirm Eligibility
Verify your school is an eligible K-12 institution (private, religious, or homeschool cooperative) under FSTC program rules.
Identify SGOs
Research which Scholarship Granting Organizations operate in Colorado. Contact them to understand application processes and timelines.
Estimate Family Eligibility
Use the FSTC Income Eligibility Calculator to estimate how many of your families fall within the 300% median income threshold.
Open CalculatorPrepare Documentation
Gather documentation of qualifying educational expenses: tuition, fees, tutoring, curriculum materials, and educational therapy costs.
Designate a Coordinator
Assign an FSTC coordinator to manage scholarship applications, SGO partnerships, and family communications.
Develop Communication Plan
Create materials to inform families about FSTC eligibility, the application process, and covered expenses. Plan for information sessions and one-on-one support.
Build SGO Relationships
Establish relationships with at least one SGO before the application window opens. Understand their requirements, reporting expectations, and disbursement timelines.
Recent News
Governor Jared Polis defended his decision to opt Colorado into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, saying it complies with state anti-discrimination laws because it relies on private donations rather than public funds. Democratic lawmakers shelved a bill in early May 2026 (HB 1292) that would have required scholarship-granting organizations to follow state anti-discrimination laws, a measure Polis's office opposed. Colorado remains opted in, though Polis's term ends in January 2027 and a successor could reverse the decision.
· Chalkbeat Colorado
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