“Ask for what you need. All they can do is tell you no, but at least you asked”.

In today’s economic climate, a decision to attend an independent school is a big one for most families. Fullpay tuition can be as much as $30K at some Bay Area K-8 Independent schools and in the 40’s for high school. You may say to yourself, “well who can afford that?”. The reality of the tuition landscape is that many more schools have shifted their financial aid policies to a more sustainable model of affordability vs. accessibility than in years past. With that in mind 25% to 33% of any given school community is receiving some level of financial aid and they are rarely the low income families that we had become accustomed to assuming as the recipients. Quite the contrary. Middle to upper middle class families are more often the ones applying for and receiving financial aid. In addition to financial aid, there may be scholarships that can be added to the bottom line to help offset the cost; sometimes even in addition to financial aid awards. So, if you think you can’t afford it, think again!

Let’s face it, independent school is a privilege that many of families cannot afford at the full going rate, but with a little help, it may be something that you can stretch to make a reality. When going out on a limb, my father would always say to us, “Ask for what you need. All they can do is tell you no, but at least you asked”. I think about those words of wisdom when I trying to find an angle to get the necessities in life, whatever they may be. School choice should be no different. It will take a bit a work and dedication on your part as well as a huge dose of follow through. You will likely get 10 “no’s” before you get to the “yes”. In the end,  it is my hope that you find that your hard work will pay off.  Below is a list of resources that include school financial aid, outside scholarships and a few other tips. Let’s get started!