The Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) is now accepting applications from organizations seeking approval as new Course Choice Providers, Digital Learning Providers, or both for the 2027-2028 school year. Providers currently approved to offer Course Choice or Digital Learning courses do not need to reapply.
Established by the LEARNS Act, Course Choice allows students in grades 6–12 to enroll in approved secondary courses not offered by their resident school. Students attending a school with a "D" or "F" rating may enroll in any approved course required for graduation, as well as courses not available through their resident school.
Additionally, under the Digital Learning Act (ACA § 6-16-1403), approved digital learning providers may partner with districts to deliver digital courses to students in grades K-12.
To streamline the approval process, ADE continues to use a single application for both programs. Organizations seeking approval to offer Course Choice courses, Digital Learning courses, or both should review the application requirements and program guidance before submitting their application.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications must be submitted no later than August 31, 2026. New providers seeking approval for the 2027-2028 school year must submit an application by the deadline. Providers that do not apply by August 31, 2026, will not be included on the approved provider lists.
KEY UPDATES FOR 2027-2028
All current Course Choice and Digital Learning Providers will be contacted directly with instructions for continued participation.
Quality Matters (QM) Phase 2 Requirements
ADE requires approved Course Choice and Digital Learning Providers to obtain Quality Matters (QM) certification through the state's phased implementation plan. Phase 2 applies to ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies courses. Only courses that have been reviewed and certified for alignment to the Arkansas Academic Standards will be approved.
Providers offering courses during the 2027-2028 school year must be in compliance with Phase 2 by May 30, 2027.
For Phase 2:
- Core English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies courses must earn QM certification through either a Template/Content Review or a Full Review. Core courses are identified on the Eligible Courses list.
- Providers that do not offer courses in these content areas must must comply with Phase 3 requirements instead and submit documentation by May 30, 2027.
ELIGIBLE COURSE PROVIDERS
The following entities may offer courses through Arkansas's Course Choice program:
- Colleges and universities
- Businesses and organizations offering approved Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses
- Approved Digital Learning Providers
- Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts (ASMSA)
- Other educational entities approved by the State Board of Education
- Public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools rated A, B, or C
More information is available in the Course Choice Provider Guide.
INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
To simplify the authorization process, ADE has determined high school course equivalency for courses included in the Arkansas Course Transfer System. This determination applies exclusively to the Course Choice Program and does not supersede any existing or future agreements between an institution of higher education and a public school. Courses not included in the approved equivalency list will require a syllabus review.
Institutions may also apply to offer secondary-level courses that do not award college credit.
CONTACT INFO
Questions may be directed to: Course.Choice@ade.arkansas.gov.