Applying for Financial Aid

Bolles understands that the cost of a college preparatory program of this caliber is significant and we are committed to making this educational experience affordable to all students who meet our criteria for acceptance. Tuition pays only a portion of the actual annual cost of a Bolles education. We meet the difference through grants, donations, and investments.

Our Financial Aid Program is based strictly on financial need, rather than merit. Therefore, any family who has reviewed their financial situation and feels they need help paying tuition should apply for aid. Financial Aid for new students enrolling in Grade 12 and for international students is very limited. Below are the answers to many of the questions you may have about financial aid and how to apply.

How do I apply for financial aid?

You may apply online at www.sss.nais.org/parents from November 1 on. Information on this process is available from the Admission Office. Students currently receiving aid will receive this information automatically. Students must be enrolled before a financial aid application will be reviewed. It is required of returning students and highly recommended of new students that the financial aid application be completed by March1st. Additionally, all income tax forms and schedules that were filed with the Internal Revenue Service for the current tax year must be submitted.

How is need determined?
Need is determined by the School's Financial Aid Committee, which uses the confidential Parents' Financial Statement, tax returns, and the School and Student Services as a guide. School and Student Services collects information that is submitted by parents to assist our committee in determining need. Through all submitted materials, the Committee then determines the level of demonstrated need and how much aid can be granted

Must a family have a very modest income in order to receive financial aid?
No. Net income is not the only factor used in making financial aid decisions--assets, debts, and number of dependents have a considerable influence on financial aid decisions.

How much financial aid may I expect to receive?
Each award is individualized, based upon the demonstrated financial need of each applicant.

What if my financial situation changes?
Each year a family must reapply for financial aid. If the family's financial circumstances remain the same, the School will make every effort to assist a family at the same level of aid.

Must I repay this award?
No. A financial award is used to offset the costs of our educational programs. These awards are grants made possible by donors, many of whom received aid themselves. It is hoped that each recipient will consider a gift to the endowment fund at an appropriate time in the future.

What if I am divorced or separated?
In the matter of divorce or separation of parents, the Financial Aid Committee will consider the assets of both natural parents, if living, before making any award, and cannot be bound by the assertion that one parent has disclaimed responsibility for educational expenses. If either parent has remarried, we will consider also the assets and income of the stepparent, always bearing in mind the obligation of that stepparent to his or her own natural children. The non-custodial parent also must complete a Parents' Financial Statement. This statement and a copy of the tax return must also be submitted.

Are decisions regarding admission and financial aid related?
All admission decisions are made without regard for financial need.

I have other children applying to or attending tuition-charging institutions. Must I also apply for financial aid from those schools?
Yes. We assume that a family applying for aid from Bolles will apply for financial aid from all tuition-charging institutions their other children may be attending. If another school does not have a financial aid program, please note that on your Parents' Financial Statement.

Only one parent works outside the home. Must both parents be employed to receive financial aid from Bolles?
In general, yes, if all children in the family are in school. We also realize, however, that circumstances may make it impossible, or very difficult, for both parents to work outside the home in specific cases. Explaining such circumstances on your financial aid application, and describing the non-working partner's plans for eventual employment, are important.

Are there other ways of paying school expenses besides receiving financial aid directly from Bolles?
Yes. Many families arrange loans through personal banks or through education payment programs, such as "Your Tuition Solution.” With a monthly payment plan from Your Tuition Solution, paying for your child's education is easier than ever.

• Low fixed rate - as low as 5.99%
• Repay on your schedule: 24 to 84 months
• No supplemental or hidden costs.
• No prepayment penalty gives you maximum flexibility
• Plans available for a wide range of credit histories.

Apply by mail, fax, phone, or internet www.yourtuitionsolution.com for conditional approval in as little as 24 hours.

Contact the School's Finance Center (Joyce McDaniel), (904) 256-5062 for more information. If you have any questions about applying for the loan, call (800) 920-9777, and one of Your Tuition Solutions education financing advisors will be happy to assist you.