Financial Assistance
Need-Based Financial Assistance
Giving your child a Montessori education may be the edge they need to realize their dreams. The aim of Montessori education is to foster competent, responsible, adaptive citizens who are lifelong learners and problem solvers. Choosing an independent school is an important decision. At HCMS the Admissions process is designed to educate families about Montessori education and explore its appropriateness for the whole family. We recommend that interested parents read about Maria Montessori. Excellent resources are: Maria Montessori: A Biography, Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius, or The Montessori Controversy.
We value a partnership with our parents that extends beyond mere participation to intimate engagement. We respect that parents are the first and fundamental teachers of children and believe that families bear the primary responsibility for financing a child’s education. We strive to maintain a socioeconomically diverse student population. Numerous financing options are available, but it is up to each family to determine the option that best meets their needs. HCMS offers financial assistance for families who are unable to meet the full costs of our program. The following guidelines describe our Financial Assistance Program:
- Applicants must complete the admission process and be granted admission to the school under the admission guidelines; eligibility for admission is not based upon a family’s financial circumstances.
- For families who do qualify, HCMS can fund up to 60% of the Annual Tuition Fee for a limited number of families. Additional programs like extended day care or after school resources are not considered for Financial Assistance.
- Families must reapply each year and the amount awarded may vary from year to year depending on financial circumstances and availability of stipend funds.
- Awards are need-based and do not reflect academic skills or other talents.
- All applicants must complete the financial assistance application process described on the following page.
- HCMS will review each application as it is received and dispense funds as long as they are available.
- Information and documents related to a family’s financial assistance application and award are strictly confidential.
Applying for Financial Assistance
HCMS uses FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment to collect basic financial information. FACTS prepares a need analysis that suggests the amount a family can contribute for educational costs. Information gathered by FACTS provides the HCMS Financial Assistance Committee with a starting point for determining how much financial assistance will be offered. It is important that applicants address all financial assistance documents with total disclosure and candor. The FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment can be submitted online at www.factstuitionaid.com beginning January 1, 2008. Hard copies are also available in the HCMS office and applications can be mailed.
• Applicants are required to submit the following documents to FACTS:
• A copy of Form 1040 (Statement of Federal Income Tax)
• A copy of 2007 W-2 (Wage & Tax Statements)
• 1099 (Miscellaneous Income Forms)
• All Schedules
• Student applicant’s tax return if he or she is required to file
In case of divorce or separation, both the parents with whom the student resides as well as the non-custodial parent should complete a FACTS application. The family’s ability to contribute is based upon both parents’ income and assets. In addition, HCMS may request divorce decrees and child support documentation.
FAQ’s
Who may apply for financial assistance?
Any students who have been offered admission to HCMS for the upcoming academic year or any current students enrolling HCMS for the following academic year who are in good financial standing with HCMS.
Where and when do I obtain an application for financial assistance?
Families may request a financial assistance application through the HCMS office at (830)816-3819 or visit www.factstutionaid.com for online application information.
Is there a fee to apply?
Yes, FACTS charges a fee for their services. The fee for the 2008-09 school year is $20.00. Information regarding fees and instructions for filling out the appropriate forms can be found on the FACTS website.
When should I apply?
Applications for the 2008-09 school year can be submitted online beginning January 1, 2008. Applications received after April 1, 2008 will be reviewed based upon availability of funds.
May I submit an application after the deadline has already passed?
Yes, but funds are limited. HCMS will review each application as it is received and dispense funds as long as they are available.
How much financial assistance may I expect to receive?
If you qualify for the full amount of financial assistance available, you may receive a maximum of 60% of the annual tuition. Smaller awards may be offered.
If my family income is $xx,xxx per year in income, do I qualify? Should I bother filling out an application?
Each family situation is unique, and many factors are considered when assessing financial need. Therefore, we are unable to make any determinations for eligibility until all documents have been reviewed.
Is this a loan – does the money I receive have to be repaid?
Financial assistance received from HCSM is not a loan; it does not have to be repaid. Low interest educational loans are available to qualified families through private institutions. Also, HCMS encourages eligible families to pursue outside funding opportunities.
Hill Country Montessori School, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, nationality or ethnic origin in the administration of its policies or procedures.
The following companies are NAIS corporate subscribers that offer K-12 tuition loan services:
ACT Education Loans: (877) 328-1565 or www.acteducationloans.com/k_12_student_loans
Citibank / The Student Loan Corporation: (800) 967-2400 or www.studentloan.com
CitiAssist K-12 loan: (800) KEY-LEND (800-539-5363) or www.keybank.com
Achiever Loan: (888) 353-GATE or www.prepgate.com
The prepGATE K-12: (888) 2-SALLIE or www.salliemae.com/k12loan
The Sallie Mae K-12 Family Education Loan: (800) 920-9777 or www.yourtuitionsolution.com