Affording Orchard

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

• What is Flexible Tuition and how do I apply?

  Flexible Tuition is The Orchard School's need-based financial aid/assistance program.
  
  Orchard is proud to use the Clarity Application to determine a family’s level of financial need based on the information that families share in the application which includes assets, income, expenses, and debts.

• Does my family qualify for Flexible Tuition?

  There is a wide range of families who qualify, from those who can afford only minimal tuition to those who can afford almost full tuition. Orchard’s Flexible Tuition is calculated based on information provided from your flexible tuition application. Factors such as income, assets, tax documents, the number of children in tuition charging schools, and any extenuating circumstances are taken into consideration. It is impossible for the school, or for a family, to determine the level of tuition for which they qualify unless the entire application is completed. We recognize that every family situation is different and that even a small amount of reduced tuition can make a critical difference for many families. The income for Orchard families receiving flexible tuition is up to $240,000. 

• Is my information secure with Clarity?

  The Orchard School takes the privacy and security of your personal information very seriously. Clarity is certified for both GDPR and SOC2 and uses enterprise-level security standards including end-to-end encryption of all personally identifiable information. For more information, please refer to Clarity’s Privacy Policy.

• Can I complete my Clarity application on my phone or tablet?

  Yes! Clarity’s application is fully mobile-friendly so you have access wherever you are.

• How does Clarity make it easier for me to apply for flexible tuition?

  Clarity offers a streamlined, mobile friendly application that can be completed in as short a time as 20 minutes.

• Will applying for Flexible Tuition affect my child’s chances of being accepted?

  Applicants are selected without regard for their ability to pay tuition. Submitting an application for Flexible Tuition has no bearing on an applicant’s admission decision. Flexible Tuition applications are confidential and the information provided is reviewed only by the Flexible Tuition Committee. Faculty are not aware of which families apply for Flexible Tuition. These practices are aligned with the (NAIS) Principles of Good Practice for Financial Aid Administration.

• Are all students who are offered admission also offered Flexible Tuition if their parents qualify?

  Unfortunately, we do not have the resources to offer Flexible Tuition to every student who qualifies for both admission and a reduced tuition rate. Qualifying students may be offered admission but placed on the waitlist for Flexible Tuition. 

• If a family does not receive Flexible Tuition one year, can they re-apply the following year?

  Yes. New applicants may reapply for Flexible Tuition each year. Returning families must apply each year to be considered for Flexible Tuition.