Investing in a quality education for your child’s future may be one of the most important decisions you will ever make. We believe that school choice should be based on quality academic programs and opportunities available to your child. We also recognize that cost is an important factor in that decision.
During the 2009-10 school year, approximately 43% of all students attending Saint John's Prep’s Upper School received financial assistance. More than $808,000 in financial aid was awarded, and individual awards ranged from $500 to $12,000. Students entering grades 9-12 are eligible to apply for assistance from Saint John's Prep. Both Middle School and Upper School students are encouraged to apply for the Pathways to Success Scholarship, as described below.
Financial aid is offered by Saint John's Prep to assist families with the cost of tuition. To equitably determine a student's financial need, a family submits a completed financial aid application, based on the prior tax year and wage information. The cost of an education at Saint John's Prep compared with the family's resources will determine the amount of aid to be awarded. We also take into consideration any special family circumstances when determining the financial aid award. All information shared is completely confidential.
These awards vary in value, are based on documented need, and are renewable. Families must formally apply for financial aid grants and scholarships each year by completing the Financial Aid Application form (available from the Admission Office).
Work Study Award
Every financial need award includes a work study award. Day students may work at the school during the summer months, school vacations and during the school day. Resident students usually work after school or on Saturdays. Students normally do not work more than five hours per week during the school year. The work award is an opportunity to earn that sum provided the work is satisfactorily completed.
MERIT BASED Headmaster's Scholarships
Saint John's Prep provides a limited number of $1,000 Headmaster’s Scholarships (renewable up to four years) to outstanding students entering 9th grade. Awards are based on academic achievement, participation in extra‑curricular activities and overall contribution to the community. To apply for this award, students must submit a scholarship application by May 1.
One $600 scholarship is awarded each year to an incoming ninth grade student who has a demonstrated interest in science as well as strong academic achievements and leadership. This award was established by alumni/ae of the school in honor of Prep science teacher and coach, Peter Froehle. To apply for this award, students must submit a scholarship application by May 1.
The Theatre Scholarship was established in honor of Br. Paul-Vincent Niebaer, who greatly contributed to the Saint John's Prep community by teaching and directing theatre for thirteen years. Upper School students who have a strong demonstrated interest in theatre are encouraged to apply for this one-time scholarship of $1,000. Priority consideration will be given to students entering 9th grade.
The Alumni/ae Association of SJP has established scholarship funds which provide financial aid to children of alumni/ae of the Prep School. These scholarships are awarded on a "non‑need" basis and shared by all children of alumni/ae.
OTHER SOURCES Other sources of aid may be available to help you finance a Prep education. Families should check if their parish or diocese has any programs that will encourage students to attend a private school. Fraternal organizations and area foundations have also supported students at SJP. Sometimes, relatives or friends are willing to assist with a student's educational expenses.
Pathways to Success
Specific income guidelines are in place for the scholarship program known as Pathways to Success. The funding is provided by a private foundation and generally families of four with incomes at or below $42,400 qualify. (This amount is adjusted based on the number in the family and also adjusts slightly each year.) New middle school and upper school students are eligible to apply. Contact the Saint John’s Prep Admission Office for more information.
Tax Advantage
The laws of some states permit tax advantages if the family resides in certain states and it chooses to enroll students in private school. Some of the tuition is possibly deductible from state taxes. Consult with a trusted CPA to determine eligibility for this deduction.
Loan Programs
Information on loan programs offered by national banks and loan corporations is available from the financial aid office. These companies are independent of the Prep School and this is not an endorsement, although it is another source of financing for families. Many have low APR rates and affordable monthly payments.
HOW TO APPLY Financial Aid application forms, as well as the Headmaster’s, Froehle and Theatre scholarship forms, are available online or from the Admission Office. Forms become available no later than January 1 of the year in which the student plans to enroll. It is helpful to calculate your Federal tax return as soon as possible after January 1 as this information is required in the application process. The completed Financial Aid Form, a copy of your W2 forms, and a signed copy of your Federal Tax return should be submitted to:
Financial Aid Office Saint John's Preparatory School Box 4000 Collegeville, MN 56321-4000
If you have any questions, contact the Admission Office staff at 800-525-7737 or (320) 363-3321 or e-mail admitprep@csbsju.edu
Statement of Non-Discrimination: Saint John's Preparatory School does not discriminate in its admission or financial aid of students or educational policies on the basis of race, creed, color or national or ethnic origin.
