Financial Assistance

At Presidio Hill School, we understand that many families find it challenging to pay independent school tuition. In an effort to make our school as accessible as possible, we continue to investigate alternative tuition structures and encourage our families to explore other options as well. We believe that the value of a PHS education far exceeds the considerable financial commitment it requires and understand that some families will need further assistance. We are committed to helping our families find the resources to make their child's attendance a reality. As part of our commitment to diversity, 20% of our student body receives assistance.

Financial Assistance Application Checklist

By January 7, 2008

  • Complete Presidio Hill's financial assistance application and send it to Presidio Hill

By February 5, 2008

  • Complete Parents’ Financial Statement (PFS)
  • Make two copies of the PFS
  • Send the original copy of the PFS to SSS
  • Send one copy to Presidio Hill and keep one copy for yourself
  • Complete your 2007 federal taxes, and send a copy to Presidio Hill with all required schedules and proof of income (W2’s, 1099s, etc.)

Please note that Presidio Hill School's school code is 5898.

How do I apply?

Email or call Amy Pearson to request an application for financial assistance. Applications will be available in late November.

What is financial assistance?

Financial assistance is a reduction in tuition for families who need it. Simply put, need is defined as the difference between the school’s tuition and what the family can afford. Financial assistance at Presidio Hill School is given in the form of grants that do not need to be repaid. Financial assistance comes from the school’s annual operating budget, which is provided through tuition revenue and fundraising.

How do I decide whether to apply for financial assistance? How much will I have to pay?

Since eligibility is based on many factors, it is impossible to know how much you will pay without a thorough review of your finances. Family assets, the number of children in tuition-charging schools, and many other factors affect the likelihood of receiving assistance as well how much you pay. You should apply if you question whether you can pay all the costs yourself. It is our expectation that families who begin at PHS paying the full tuition will continue to do so unless there is a significant change in family finances.

How are financial assistance decisions made?

Decisions are made by a Financial Assistance Committee that includes the Director, Associate Director, Business Manager, and the Director of Admissions and Financial Assistance, who oversees the committee. The committee follows the Principles of Good Practice for Financial Aid of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). A copy of these can be obtained at www.nais.org or through the admissions office. Great effort is made to treat each application with the respect, confidentiality, and thoroughness that it deserves. To determine the fairest and most equitable family payment, PHS uses (as do most independent schools) the School and Student Service of Financial Aid (SSS). This system analyzes the information you provide on your Parents' Financial Statement (PFS) and computes a recommended payment for tuition. Each school then amends this recommendation according to its own internal policies. This may include additional factors not computed in the methodology, such as cost of living and special circumstances. We send more information about these policies to all families who apply for financial assistance.

If I receive financial assistance, do I have to re-apply each year?

Yes. Family finances can change from year to year and re-applying ensures that we distribute the school’s money equitably. Only applications that are received by the required deadlines will be considered.

In a two-parent household, must both parents work in order to be eligible for financial assistance?

In general, yes, unless one parent is home with children too young for school or has a disability.

Does PHS expect step-parents, domestic partners, ex-spouses, or ex-domestic partners to be part of my application for financial assistance?

Yes, since this generally changes your financial picture substantially. We ask all parents or guardians to complete the application to provide a realistic picture of family resources. We are also aware that circumstances differ widely, so please contact the office if some or all information cannot be provided, or if you have additional questions.

Does everyone who qualifies for financial assistance receive it?

No. Like most schools, we have more qualified applicants than we have money in the budget. Some families will be placed on a financial assistance waiting list. As funds become available, all students on the list will be considered equally, and we will offer assistance according to the enrollment needs of the school.

Is it possible to appeal our financial assistance decision?

Yes. If you feel that you have omitted, or not appropriately clarified, specific financial information, or if you have new information to communicate, please submit it in writing to the Financial Assistance Committee for reconsideration.

When are decisions made?

If the application is submitted on time, you will receive a financial assistance decision with your acceptance after March 12, 2008.

What if I have additional questions or need help with a form?

Don’t worry! This is just an introduction, and the application for financial assistance includes more details. Simply return the postcard in your admissions packet to learn more, or contact Amy Pearson at any time.