• What is Financial Assistance?

    A need-based financial assistance program used by many independent schools, colleges and universities. This program allows families to apply for reduced tuition that fits their financial situation.

  • What grades are eligible for financial assistance?

    Families of students in Kindergarten - Eighth Grade may apply for financial assistance. Financial assistance is not available for the Primary School and Early Childhood divisions.

  • Are families awarded “full tuition” assistance?

    No. All families at HSES are committed to the financial investment in the education of their child. Financial Assistance never exceeds 50% of the stated tuition. Our goal is to share the investment of a child’s education with all parents. 

  • What percent of students currently receive financial assistance?

    Under the existing program, 8% of current students receive financial assistance. However, we would like to expand this program. Award amounts vary according to the financial needs of each family.

  • How does financial assistance work?

    Current or new parents of incoming kindergarten through eighth-grade students may apply for Financial Assistance. We consider many factors to determine the Financial Assistance award such as income, assets, unusual expenses, and the size of the family. 

    The school cannot estimate the Financial Assistance award without the submission of a FACTS Grant and Aid application, a third-party financial review agency. FACTS evaluates the application based on criteria set by the school and makes a recommendation to the school’s Financial Assistance Committee. The Head of Finance and Business Operations notifies an applying family about their Financial Assistance Tuition award. 

    Unfortunately, the school is not always able to meet the full demonstrated need of all deserving students. HSES works within its available resources to make the school accessible to as many families as possible.

  • What is the cost to apply for financial assistance

    The fee to apply for Financial Assistance is $35 per family and is paid directly to FACTS when submitting the online application. 

  • When is the FACTS application available to complete?

    FACTS is available for Financial Assistance applications in December prior to the upcoming school year.

  • When is the deadline to apply?

    For current students re-enrolling at HSES, the deadline to submit a Financial Assistance application is March 15.  Families may apply for financial assistance after this date by contacting the Business Office to receive instructions for submitting an application.

  • How do I apply for financial assistance?

    Parents submit their financial information directly to FACTS. Applications for admission and for Financial Assistance are two separate processes. HSES does not consider an applicant's financial situation when deciding admission and does not guarantee receipt of a Financial Assistance award. FACTS will notify HSES when applications for Financial Assistance are submitted and completed.

  • What documentation does FACTS require?

    • Copies of most recent IRS Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ.

    • Copies of all most recent W-2 Wage and Tax Statements.

    • Non-refundable application fee of $35 paid directly to FACTS online (only one application to FACTS is required per family, per year).

  • What is the income limit to qualify for financial assistance?

    There is no set income level to qualify for Financial Assistance. Each family’s situation is unique and is carefully evaluated.

  • Do I need to apply for financial assistance every year?

    Yes, Financial Assistance is awarded annually. The financial circumstances of families can fluctuate from year to year, as can the overall financial assistance resources of the school. The Financial Assistance Committee’s decision to make an award one year does not set a binding precedent for awards in the future.

  • When will I be notified of my financial assistance award?

    Typically, an award notice is made four to five weeks after completing the FACTS application. All financial obligations to HSES must be current. Access to Financial Assistance applications is restricted and confidential. Families that receive financial assistance must keep details in strict confidence. Breach of confidentiality may result in forfeiture of Financial Assistance. 

  • What if financial assistance is not enough?

    Once an award is made, parents who feel their circumstances are exceptional and warrant further consideration should meet with the Head of Finance and Business Operations to submit a verbal appeal by the deadline date indicated on the award letter. Additional information and/or documentation may be required.

  • If I do not qualify for the program this year, can I apply again next year?

    Yes, a family that does not qualify is welcome to reapply the following year.

  • Who is the contact for financial assistance?

    Jacki Higgs, Head of Finance and Business Operations

    (713) 468-5138, ext. 216

  • Who is the contact for Admissions?

    Jenna Gaudard, Director of Admissions
    (713) 468-5138, ext. 231
    [email protected]