What type of financial aid do private schools give?

I am wondering if anyone can tell me what the term "financial aid" normally means in reference to private schools?  I am planning to apply for my kids for middle school.  If we get financial aid, will this be a loan, like a college loan, that we have to pay back? Or will it more likely be a discounted tuition? Or does it vary? Thank you! Mom in Oakland

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In my experience, financial aid from private schools is given as a tuition reduction. There would be no obligation to pay it back, and most schools keep the list of families receiving financial aid private.