Florida Autism Schools & Services Guide 2026
Find the right autism school, ABA therapy, and support services for your child in Florida
What are autism schools in Florida?
Autism schools in Florida are specialized educational programs designed for students on the autism spectrum. These schools offer smaller class sizes, trained staff, and teaching methods like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that match how autistic students learn best. Florida has over 500 autism-focused schools and programs, including free charter schools, private ABA schools, and therapeutic day programs. Most accept the FES-UA scholarship (averaging $10,000 per year), making private autism education accessible to more families.
Types of Autism Schools in Florida
Not all autism schools are the same. Here is a breakdown of the main types you will find in Florida:
Schools that use Applied Behavior Analysis as the primary teaching method. Staff includes BCBAs and trained behavior technicians.
Best for:
Children who benefit from 1:1 instruction and data-driven behavior plans
Average cost:
$25,000 - $40,000/year
Examples in Florida:
Tuition-free public schools focused on autism. Funded by the state and open to all Florida residents.
Best for:
Families seeking free specialized education
Average cost:
Free (public)
Examples in Florida:
Private schools with small class sizes and trained staff. May use multiple teaching approaches beyond ABA.
Best for:
Children who need smaller settings but can handle group instruction
Average cost:
$15,000 - $30,000/year
Examples in Florida:
Schools combining academics with intensive therapy services. Often include speech, OT, and counseling on-site.
Best for:
Children with multiple support needs who benefit from integrated therapy
Average cost:
$20,000 - $35,000/year
Examples in Florida:
Which type is right for your child?
The best choice depends on your child's needs, your budget, and what is available in your area. Children who need intensive 1:1 support often do well in ABA-based schools. Families on a budget should look at autism charter schools first. Kids who can handle group settings may thrive in specialized private schools with smaller class sizes.
What to Look For in an Autism School
Choosing the right school is one of the biggest decisions you will make. Here is a checklist to guide your search:
- BCBAs on staff (for ABA schools)
- Special education certified teachers
- Low student-to-staff ratios (1:1 to 1:4)
- Staff training in autism and behavior support
- Individualized education plans for each student
- Data collection and regular progress reports
- Parent communication and involvement
- Structured daily schedule with visual supports
- Speech-language therapy on-site or available
- Occupational therapy
- Social skills instruction
- Transition planning for older students
- Sensory-friendly spaces
- Safe outdoor areas
- Small class sizes
- Clear expectations and routines
Before You Enroll
- • Visit the school in person and observe a class
- • Ask about staff turnover rates
- • Request references from current families
- • Review the school's data on student progress
- • Confirm they accept your funding source (FES-UA, insurance, etc.)
ABA Therapy in Florida
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the most widely researched treatment for autism. Here is what Florida families need to know:
What is ABA?
ABA uses positive reinforcement to teach new skills and reduce challenging behaviors. A BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) creates an individualized plan based on your child's needs. Sessions can happen at home, in a clinic, or at school.
Typical intensity: 10-40 hours per week, depending on the child's needs and age.
How to Find ABA Providers
- Contact your insurance for in-network providers
- Search the BACB certificant registry
- Ask your regional CARD center for referrals
- Many autism schools offer ABA on-site
Paying for ABA Therapy
Private Insurance
Florida law requires most insurers to cover autism treatment including ABA. Coverage varies by plan. Some have annual caps or require pre-authorization.
Florida Medicaid
Medicaid covers ABA for children with autism. No annual hour cap for children under 21. You need a diagnosis and physician referral to start services.
FES-UA Scholarship
FES-UA funds can pay for ABA from approved providers. Works well when combined with insurance for maximum coverage.
Free CARD Center Services
CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disabilities) provides free support to Florida families. You do not need a referral. Services include parent training, social skills groups, school consultations, and behavior support.
FAU CARD
Southeast Florida
Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade
UF CARD
North Central Florida
Gainesville, Ocala, surrounding counties
CARD-USF Tampa
Tampa Bay Area
Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco
CARD-USF Fort Myers
Southwest Florida
Lee, Collier, Charlotte
UCF CARD
Central Florida
Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Brevard
FSU CARD
Northwest Florida
Tallahassee, Pensacola, Panama City
UNF CARD
Northeast Florida
Jacksonville, St. Augustine
What CARD Can Do For You
- Parent and caregiver training
- Social skills groups for kids and teens
- Free workshops and webinars
- School and IEP consultations
- Behavior support planning
- Referrals to local providers
Learn more at florida-card.org
Funding Options for Autism Services
Autism services can be expensive. Here are the main ways Florida families pay for schools and therapy:
FES-UA Scholarship
State education savings account for students with disabilities. Covers tuition, ABA, therapies, and curriculum.
Florida Medicaid
Covers ABA therapy, speech, OT, and other medically necessary services. No annual cap for children under 21.
Private Insurance
Florida requires most insurers to cover autism treatment including ABA. Check your plan for specifics.
iBudget Waiver (APD)
Medicaid waiver for home and community-based services. Covers respite, personal care, and more. Has a waitlist.
Combine Funding Sources
Many families use multiple funding sources. A common approach: use insurance for ABA therapy, FES-UA for private school tuition, and CARD for free support services. This stretches your dollars further.
Read our FES-UA guide for step-by-step application helpAutism Schools by Region
Here are some of the top autism schools in each Florida region. This is not a complete list, but it is a good starting point:
Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater
Orlando, Winter Park, Kissimmee
Jacksonville, St. Augustine
Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach
Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral
Tell us your location and child's needs. We will send you a list of matching schools.
Early Intervention (Birth to 3)
Early intervention can make a big difference. Florida offers free services for infants and toddlers with developmental concerns.
Florida Early Steps
Early Steps is Florida's early intervention program for children from birth to 36 months. If your child shows signs of developmental delay or has a diagnosis, they may qualify for free services.
Services Include:
- Free developmental screenings
- Speech and language therapy
- Occupational and physical therapy
- Family training and support
How to Get Started:
Anyone can make a referral. Call the statewide number or visit their website.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Research shows that children who receive intervention before age 3 have better outcomes in communication, social skills, and behavior. If you have concerns about your child's development, do not wait. Call Early Steps for a free screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Find the Right Autism School?
Tell us about your child and your location. We will match you with autism schools that fit your needs and accept your funding.
Free. No obligation. We never share your information.