GATOR Scholarsh⁠i⁠p Appl⁠i⁠ca⁠t⁠⁠i⁠ons Open, Expand⁠i⁠ng Oppor⁠t⁠un⁠i⁠⁠t⁠y for Lou⁠i⁠s⁠i⁠ana Fam⁠i⁠l⁠i⁠es 

March 5, 2026

March 5, 2026

by Lily Landry, legislative director

Applications for the next round of LA GATOR Scholarships opened on March 1, marking the latest phase in the program’s rollout and expansion for Louisiana families. 

Interest in the program has been strong from the start. More than 39,000 Louisiana students applied for the LA GATOR Scholarship in its first year, reflecting significant demand from families seeking greater access to educational options. 

In 2024, Governor Jeff Landry led the creation of the LA GATOR Scholarship program, expanding educational opportunity and giving families greater flexibility in choosing learning environments that align with their child’s individual needs and goals. The program provides scholarships that can be used for a wide range of approved educational expenses, creating new pathways for students across the state. 

Polling shows strong support for educational freedom among Louisiana families. Two-thirds of parents support educational freedom, reflecting broad interest in having access to more educational options and the ability to make decisions that best serve their children. 

The program is already serving thousands of Louisiana students. As applications open for the coming school year, more families will have the opportunity to access educational options that reflect their children’s needs and goals. 

With the LA GATOR Scholarship program in place, Louisiana families have greater access to opportunity and the ability to choose what works best for their children.