How to pay for private school

Updated October 14, 2026

Private school costs vary a lot. Many parish and church schools charge a few thousand dollars a year, while some independent and boarding schools charge much more. Few families pay the full price from savings alone. Here are the usual ways to make it work.

Ask the school about financial aid first

Most private schools offer need-based aid, and many use an outside service to review family finances. Ask early: aid deadlines are often in the winter for the next school year. Ask about sibling discounts and, at religious schools, member or parish rates.

Check your state's programs

Many states now have education savings accounts, vouchers, tax-credit scholarships or tax credits for families. See what your state offers and ask each school whether it takes part.

Private scholarships

Scholarship organizations, foundations, dioceses and community groups give scholarships to students in many areas. Ask the school which ones its families use.

529 savings plans

Federal law lets families use 529 college savings plans for K-12 tuition, up to a yearly limit. Rules for state tax benefits differ, so check with your plan or a tax professional.

Payment plans

Most schools let you pay monthly instead of all at once. Ask about any fees for the plan.

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.