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Pre-Authorization

FES-UA pre-authorization letter guide

A useful pre-authorization request should be specific to the student, explain the item or service clearly, and describe the educational benefit in plain language before the family makes the purchase.

Last reviewed: May 27, 2026

What the request should make clear

The strongest request is not a generic template. It connects the item, service, or program to the student's actual learning needs and to the category you expect Step Up to use when reviewing the request.

  • The exact item or service, not just the store or a broad category.
  • The student-specific educational benefit in plain English.
  • The approximate cost, provider or vendor name, and supporting details.
  • Why the request belongs in the category you chose.

What pre-authorization does not guarantee

The handbook language is careful here. Pre-authorization is not the same thing as confirming provider eligibility, funding availability, or future reimbursement approval. It is only a case-by-case decision on the requested item or service for that school year.

Important: the 2025-2026 FES-UA purchasing guide says pre-authorization requests are accepted until April 30, 2026, to leave time for approval, purchase, and reimbursement before the school year closes.

How to make the later reimbursement easier

If the request is approved, keep the approval details together with the later invoice, receipt, and proof of payment. The reimbursement packet should still match the approved item or service and still satisfy the usual documentation rules.

Related resources

Invoices
Provider invoice requirements Use this when you are preparing the later invoice and service documentation.
Workflow
FES-UA reimbursement guide See how pre-authorization fits into the full reimbursement workflow.

Official sources to verify

Use the current purchasing guide and FAQ pages when you are drafting or submitting a pre-authorization request.

Step Up purchasing guides Step Up FAQ help center

Verification note: This page is general information, not official Step Up For Students guidance. Verify current rules, deadlines, and document requirements on the Step Up For Students website before submitting.