Westerly School

Consistent with its mission, Westerly School seeks a diverse student body that  reflects the community at large- a broad economic, social, ethnic and cultural mix. Westerly School is committed to enrolling a talented and diverse student body and believes that the cost of tuition should not be a deterrent to prospective families.

The value of tuition at Westerly is tied to the school's commitment to providing top opportunities and resources to the students. Westerly is devoted to reviewing the tuition each year and consistently ranks below the median of other leading independent schools, both locally and nationally. We understand, however, that tuition is a significant expenditure for many families.

Westerly's financial aid program is designed to bridge the gap between what a family can contribute (based on a confidential and standardized needs analysis) and what it actually costs to attend Westerly School. Every year a percent of the school's operating budget is set aside to help bridge this gap. Financial aid is offered on the basis of the documented financial need of the family and the availability of funds.

Submission of an application for financial aid has no bearing upon the deliberations of the Admission Committee or the assessment of an applicant's potential as a Westerly School student. Decisions regarding a candidate's admission to the school and his or her eligibility for financial aid are made independently. Need-based financial aid is available for qualified applicants. Families wishing to be considered for financial assistance with the tuition should fill out the interest form found on the last sheet of the Application Packet. After turning in the completed interest form into the front office, someone will contact you. The financial aid process is separate from the admissions process, and requesting aid will in no way affect the applicant's admission status. However, it is important to apply early to maximize opportunities for funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Who may apply for financial aid?
A. Anyone may apply for aid. If you feel you cannot afford the Westerly School tuition, you should complete the financial aid application forms. Financial aid is based solely on demonstrated need. Applying for aid, however, does not guarantee a grant will be offered.
 

Q. How and when do I apply for financial aid?
A. Financial Aid application forms are available online. To apply for financial aid, parents must complete a Parents' Financial Statement (PFS) online http://sss.nais.org or mail it, along with the appropriate fee, to SSS in Pittsburgh, PA. In addition, copies of past 1040 Tax Forms including W-2 forms and Westerly's Supplemental form must be uploaded to the SSS website as well. PFS forms should be submitted to SSS by the financial aid deadline in mid February.

Q. What if I am separated or divorced?
A. In the case of parents who are separated, divorced, or have never been married, both natural parents must file statements. PFS forms should be submitted to SSS as early in January as possible in order to meet the Westerly School priority deadline of January 23. After January 23, applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis as the Financial Aid budget allows. It is the school's policy to consider the resources of a step-parent in making an award.
 

Q. Is there a minimum or maximum income a family must have in order to be
considered for financial aid?
A. No. Net income is not the only factor used in making financial aid decisions. Assets, debts, and number of dependents are among the various factors that Westerly School considers, and these factors may have an influence on a financial aid decision.