We understand, too, that the decision to provide an independent school education represents a significant financial investment in a child’s future. Our desire is to make it possible for families to enroll their children at Dunham regardless of their economic circumstances. Many families don't realize that we offer merit scholarships, need-based financial assistance, and several payment plans. Take a moment to learn about our Virtus Scholarships and our tuition assistance program. Please contact our Admissions Office if you have questions. We're here to assist you in making a Dunham education possible for your child.
The Virtus Scholarship Program at Dunham awards full-tuition merit scholarships to new students entering grades 6-10 who have demonstrated excellence in academic achievement, character, and leadership. The Latin word Virtus – interpreted as excellence, character, courage and worth – reflects the essential qualities expected of students desiring admission to The Dunham School. Virtus Scholarships are based on individual merit, not financial need. All new students who believe they meet the eligibility requirements for the scholarship should apply. Candidates who are not awarded a Virtus Scholarship may be considered for a Merit Award and are also encouraged to apply for tuition assistance through our financial aid program.
Any new student entering grades six through ten who meets the following criteria may be considered for a Virtus Scholarship:
New students entering grades 6-10 who fall below the Virtus Scholarship threshold may be eligible for a merit award. Candidates for these awards are identified through the Virtus Scholarship application process or admissions testing and interviews. Award amounts vary and are determined by the Merit Scholarship Committee.
An independent school education is a major investment, requiring planning and often sacrifice on the part of parents. As a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), we strongly believe the family, to that the extent that they are able, is responsible for financing a child’s education. We do understand, however, that not every family has the means to cover the full cost of tuition and offer need-based tuition assistance for those who would otherwise be unable to consider enrolling their children at Dunham.
Financial need is evaluated by ISM's Financial Aid for School Tuition (FAST), a service that provides schools with a third-party analysis and guidelines for making tuition assistance awards fairly and equitably, after considering a number of factors, including income and assets, number of dependents, and the number of your children attending tuition-charging institutions. Allowances are made for living expenses, retirement, taxes, medical costs, and certain unusual expenses and debts. The FAST analysis serves as a guide for the School and is not a guarantee of an award amount. All tuition assistance decisions are made in-house by our Tuition Assistance Committee.
Tuition assistance is available for students in PreK3-12th grade. Families who feel they may qualify are encouraged to apply. Because funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, we recommend parents apply early. Tuition assistance awards are made only after a student has received on offer of admission to Dunham.
To apply for tuition assistance for the 2020-2021 school year, submit an online application to FAST. There is a $45 fee, payable by credit card to, to file an application. The priority deadline to apply is January 27. We know you may have additional questions about tuition assistance and would be happy to meet with you privately to discuss the process.
Tuition and fees for the 2020-2021 school year are indicated below. Please contact the Admissions Office for a detailed explanation of tuition, fees, and payment options. Tuition and fees for the McKay Academic Center can be found here.
Upper School
Grades 9-12 - $18,875
Middle School
Grades 5-8 - $17,895
Lower School
Grades 2-4 - $16,410
First Grade - $15,190
Kindergarten - $13,670
PreK 4 - $12,110
PreK 3 - $10,550
Re-enrollment fee - $300 (non-refundable; due on or before Jan. 27; increases to $550 after Jan. 27)
Technology fee - $550 (PK4-12 only)
Dining Services - $790 (K-4); $1,000 (5-8); $1,100 (9-12)
Facilities Fee - $300 (PK3-12)
New Student Enrollment fee (K-12) - $750 (one-time, non-refundable fee for new students only; waived for children of alumni)
Option 1 - one-time payment due by March 20, 2020
Option 2 - payment in four (4) equal installments due March 20, April 20, May 20, and June 20, 2020
Option 3 - payment in equal monthly installments beginning the month following enrollment with the final payment due Feb. 20, 2021; please note that six percent interest is added to monthly payments.
