Bertschi School is committed to attracting and retaining a socio-economically diverse student body.

We have established a financial aid program for families who might otherwise be unable to consider Bertschi as an option for their child. Our financial aid program helps not only with tuition but associated educational costs such as Learning Services and Extended Day.

How do I know if I should apply for aid?

Independent school education is a choice for families. Most families must make significant financial sacrifices to support this choice and adjust their spending priorities accordingly. However, some families simply cannot cover tuition costs, even after the most careful household budgeting. Monthly tuition payments at Bertschi this year are approximately $1729; if after careful planning you are not able to afford this monthly amount your family should consider applying for aid.

How is financial aid determined?

Financial aid awards are based on a family’s ability to meet the cost of an education at Bertschi. To determine the most fair and equitable estimate of a family’s need, Bertschi utilizes School and Student Services for Financial Aid (SSS), an organization that does an independent assessment of financial aid. In addition, parents are asked to provide an explanation of their financial situation and relevant documents (tax returns, wage statements, etc.) to the Business Office, which administers Bertschi’s financial aid program.

Who will have access to my financial information?

All financial information provided to Bertschi School is completely confidential. Admission decisions are made independent of the financial aid award process.

Will applying for financial aid affect my child’s application for admission?

The admission committee reviews applicant files with a primary goal in mind: to identify those students who will benefit the most from an education at Bertschi, and make a positive contribution to the life of the school. The committee does not have access to financial information or aid applications. However, our financial aid funds are not limitless, and we must be able to budget for the needs of the students we wish to accept when admission decisions are finalized. Bertschi does assume that parents have carefully analyzed their own capacity to pay tuition and have applied for aid if needed at the outset of the admission process, so that both the school and families accepted can make decisions accordingly.

How do I begin the financial aid process?

Fill out an application form [PDF] and follow the financial aid guidelines for application [PDF]. You will also need to submit information to the School and Student Service for Financial Aid (SSS), which can be done online here.

If you would like to request paper copies of these forms, please contact the Financial Aid Office at 206-324-5476 x105 and a packet will be mailed to you.