Last verified: October 2026
What does a state charter require in Ohio?
A chartered nonpublic school holds a charter issued by DEW and maintains compliance with the Operating Standards for Ohio's Schools. The process begins with an online tutorial and works through a plan of compliance, a checklist, the Report of a Nonpublic School, an affidavit of intent and a nondiscrimination policy. The charter is specific to the school's name, location, ownership and grade levels.
What does a non-chartered (NCNP) school give up?
A nonchartered nonpublic school operates because of truly held religious beliefs, certifies to parents each year that it meets minimum standards, and files that report with DEW between July 1 and September 30. Its students are not entitled to state pupil transportation or auxiliary services, and it is outside the EdChoice program.
What do chartered schools that take scholarship students owe the state?
Scholarship students must take the state's elementary and high school assessments. If 65% or more of a school's students are on scholarships, the elementary tests apply to every enrolled student unless the school qualifies for a waiver, according to the Legislative Service Commission's 2025 brief.
Who in Central Ohio has chosen each path?
In the four counties, 121 schools in our directory are on the state's chartered list and 39 schools appear on DEW's 2026-27 non-chartered list, many of them home-based. Both lists are public; we show the status on every listing.
| Chartered | Non-chartered (NCNP) | |
|---|---|---|
| Can enroll EdChoice students | Yes | No |
| State operating standards | Must comply | Certifies minimum standards to parents |