Paying for Catholic high school

Catholic high school tuition varies widely, and federal data does not report it, so you will need to ask each school. The good news: most Catholic high schools, parishes, and dioceses work hard to make a Catholic education possible for families who want one.

Where help comes from

• The school’s own financial aid. Most schools award need-based aid through an application, often using a third-party financial aid form. Ask for the deadline in the fall.
• Merit scholarships. Many schools award scholarships based on the entrance exam or grades. See our admissions guide.
• Your parish. Some parishes help registered, active parishioners with tuition, or have a lower parishioner rate at a parish school. Ask your pastor or parish office.
• Your diocese. Many dioceses run a tuition assistance fund for Catholic school families. The diocese’s Catholic schools office can tell you how to apply.
• State programs. Many states have scholarship programs for students at private schools, such as tax-credit scholarships, education savings accounts, or vouchers. Rules and amounts differ greatly by state; your diocese’s Catholic schools office usually knows what is available.
• Savings plans. 529 plans can be used for K–12 tuition up to an annual federal limit. Check the current limit and your state’s tax rules.

Questions to ask each school

• What is the full cost, including fees, books, uniforms, technology, and trips?
• What share of students receive financial aid, and what is the average award?
• Are there sibling or parishioner discounts? Is there a payment plan?
• Are scholarships renewable all four years, and on what conditions?

Next steps

• Browse Catholic high schools by state and diocese.
• Use Find my school for a shortlist near you.
• Read Choosing a Catholic high school.