Tuition Assistance Information
Will application for tuition assistance affect my child’s chances for admission?
The admissions process is separate from the awarding of tuition assistance. Only after a child is admitted does the Tuition Assistance Committee consider an application for tuition assistance. Application for tuition assistance will in no way affect a child’s chance for admission to San Francisco Friends School.
Are there different performance expectations for students receiving tuition assistance?
No. Students receiving tuition assistance awards will be held to the same academic and citizenship standards as all other students.
What factors determine eligibility for tuition assistance?
In evaluating each application, the Tuition Assistance Committee considers all sources of income for the family (including separated, divorced, and never-married parents, stepparents or partners), the value of assets, liabilities, family size, the number of students in tuition-charging institutions, priority of spending, expenses such as: cars, second property ownership, vacations, club memberships, recreational vehicles, and unusual or unanticipated expenses. San Francisco Friends School also takes into consideration the cost of living in the Bay Area. Neither San Francisco Friends School nor SSS believes that a family should contribute 100 % of their discretionary funds, but it is expected that families will consider a child’s school tuition a primary responsibility.
What other expenses are required beyond tuition?
San Francisco Friends School’s tuition is inclusive of all fees, with the exception of a minor contribution to the Parents Association. SFFS provides an Extended Day program at an additional fee, for both before and after school hours. If participation in this program is necessary to allow parents to be employed, families who receive tuition assistance awards may request financial assistance for the Extended Day program.
Do both parents need to be employed to receive tuition assistance?
San Francisco Friends School recognizes the importance of full-time parenting, especially for young children. Once all children in the household have entered kindergarten, it is generally expected that both parents are employed when considering tuition assistance awards. An annual salary of $45,000 is imputed for non-working parents (all of whose children are in kindergarten or older.) In some cases it may be impossible for a parent to be employed outside the home, and we encourage you to explain your specific situation in writing to San Francisco Friends School.
In the case of separated or divorced parents, who should apply?
Each parent, stepparent, or partner (regardless of legal settlements) is required to complete the process described, including the mailing of a separate Parent Financial Statement to SSS. In the unusual circumstance that a parent is unable or unwilling to provide this information, please send a written statement to San Francisco Friends School explaining the situation. Lack of information from either parent may prevent determination of eligibility.
Do returning families who already receive tuition assistance need to reapply?
Yes. Parents who have received a tuition assistance award must submit an application each year to demonstrate continued financial need. In general, a family who does not experience major financial changes can expect to receive an award that is the same percentage of tuition each year. Tuition Assistance awards will not be granted unless all past financial obligations to SFFS are met.
When will I receive notification of a tuition assistance award?
For returning families who have adhered to the deadlines, San Francisco Friends School will send notice of tuition assistance awards on Feb. 28, 2011. Families of new applicants will receive notice of awards with our admissions decisions mailing on March 17, 2011.
Am I still eligible for tuition assistance if my application is late?
Limited funds sometimes remain available after the initial awards have been offered in March. Families whose applications for admission have been initiated after the stated deadlines are encouraged to proceed with the required forms, although resources cannot be guaranteed and award amounts are likely to be reduced.
Who can answer my questions regarding the process?
If you have specific questions regarding the Parent Financial Statement, you may try the SSS helpline: 609-771-7770. Yvette Bonaparte, Director of Admissions, is available by phone, (415) 565-0400 x136, or email, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , to answer any questions.