Philosophy

The San Francisco Waldorf School strives to adhere to the principle that economic and financial considerations should not determine who can or cannot attend the school. In an effort to make the school accessible to children of all economic backgrounds, the school offers tuition grants based on need through its Affordable Tuition Program. In return, we seek families who are committed to Waldorf education for their children.

Procedures

Selection: All admissions decisions are made without regard to the financial circumstances of a candidate’s family. Affordable Tuition grants are made solely on the basis of financial need, as determined by the required financial statement forms, and within the constraints of the financial resources available.

Renewal: Affordable Tuition grants to families are made for the school year and a new application is required each school year since family circumstances and the Program’s funding change. Although the needs of returning families are given first consideration, we welcome applications from new families.

Evaluation of Need: Financial need is determined according to the guidelines and formulae established by the School and Students Services for Financial Aid (SSS) in Princeton, New Jersey. All applicants for financial aid – both new and returning families – must submit a Parents’ Financial Statement (PFS) to the SSS in Princeton and furnish a copy to the San Francisco Waldorf School. The Affordable Tuition Program uses SSS data as a guide in determining the size of individual grants awarded. There is also SFWS's Affordable Tuition Program application (available August 08) which must be submitted to the school along with W-2 forms and tax returns. If you are a business owner, please fill out the SS Business/Farm Statement

How to Apply: SFWS's Affordable Tuition Program application (available August 08) , PFS forms and SSS Business Form should be requested at the same time that an application for admission is requested or as soon as the forms become available. Forms typically become available in November and must be submitted by mid-January for the school year that begins the following September. Check with the grade school or high school office for the exact deadline as financial aid time approaches. Late applications will only be considered in the event funds are still available.

Notification of Tuition Grants: Notification of the award or denial of a grant is mailed to parents in early March for returning students and in late March, along with the admission acceptance letter, for new applicants. Families receiving tuition grants are required to pay the registration/re-enrollment deposit and all supplementary fees that apply.

Please note: Timely submission of the required forms is crucial to the decision process. Late applications or failure to submit required documents or information might jeopardize your chances of receiving aid.