Crestmont and Financial Aid
We are very interested in Crestmont for our two kids, and I was hoping you all might be able to give me some insight into the likelihood of getting financial aid there. We are a two income household that grosses $115-130k a year (depending on the year), with no prospects of that increasing significantly. Are we even in the ball park of possibility for receiving aid? If so, would it be more than nominal? We own our own modest home with a manageable mortgage, but have no other significant assets. Does the co op model mean Crestmont has less aid to give out than a school like Prospect Sierra? If we paid the full rate for our oldest next year, would we be expected to pay the full rate for both kids the following year or are aid decisions made on a year by year basis? Do the plans for the new campus mean we can expect sharp increases in tuition over the next several years? I don't want to even go down the path of hoping if there's no way we could afford it. Thank you for any insight you can give!
Parent Replies
Crestmont is a wonderful school, my son is a current student and we couldn't be happier with our choice. Bottom line: I think you're in the ballpark for some financial aid but it probably won't be as much as a wealthier school like Prospect Sierra. We have a similar income to yours but we don't own a home and get about 20% in financial aid. Aid decisions are made on a yearly basis and you need to reapply each year. There is also a discount for having more than 1 child enrolled. The plans for a new campus may mean a gradual increase over the next few years but not a sharp increase. We are actively working to raise capital funds in multiple ways, but not primarily by increasing tuition. I encourage you to apply and see what happens! For next year I believe you need to submit your financial aid request in January. The application is fairly easy and it's all online. Crestmont truly is a special school and even though we have to stretch a bit financially I feel like it's totally worth it. For the first time ever my son loves school! He is supported academically, socially and emotionally every day by the amazing teachers and enthusiastic community that make this one of a kind co-op what it is.