Who receives financial aid at The Putney School?
Any family applying to The Putney School that feels unable to afford the full educational cost is encouraged to apply for financial aid or discuss financing options with the Director o Financial Aid. Putney recognizes that enrolling students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds requires a substantial financial commitment. Forty-three percent of Putney students receive some financial aid, totaling $2.2 million in awards.
Will applying for financial aid affect my child's chances of admission?
Admission to The Putney School is based on the student's qualifications; financial need is not a consideration.
How does Putney determine my level of need?
The Putney School begins the financial aid allocation process by using the guidelines, formulas, and data provided to the school by Tuition Aid Data Services (TADS). The TADS report provides the first step in determining the reasonable contribution each family can make toward their child's education. The TADS calculation is an estimate, which the Financial Aid Committee uses as a guide in determining a financial aid package.
If my child enrolls without financial aid, can we apply for it in following years?
Students who enroll without financial aid during their first year should not expect to receive aid in following years. It is Putney's expectation that families who begin paying full tuition will continue to do so. Families that feel they are able to afford only the first year at Putney should review their situation with the Director of Financial Aid prior to enrolling.
Do we need to apply for financial aid each year?
Every year returning families are required to file a financial aid application, due January 1.
If my child receives a financial aid award, can we count on a similar award in subsequent years? What if our family's financial circumstances change?
Families may expect to continue receiving funding at that level provided they continue to demonstrate similar need. Requests for adjustments to prior years' grants, due to family hardship and change of income, must be submitted in writing to the Director of Financial Aid by January 1.
Who should complete the financial aid application if our family is separated and/or divorced?
Putney views financial responsibilities for education as a matter of both parents' ability to pay, not their willingness to do so. Additionally, Putney expects that separated or divorced parents will contribute to their child's education regardless of whether or not they are legally obliged to do so. Although parents may have an agreement that has established responsibility for one or the other to pay tuition, the financial aid process must consider all resources that might be available to the student. The Financial Aid Committee considers the financial resources of all living parents, stepparents, and domestic partners, and requires the cooperation of all parties before making a financial decision. If either parent has remarried, we will also take into consideration the spouse's contributions to the household along with any obligations to his or her own children.
Can non-US citizens apply for financial aid?
Yes, a limited amount of funding is available to non-US citizens. Generally, these awards do not exceed 50% of tuition.
How and when do I apply for financial aid?
The Putney School uses Tuition Aid Data Services (TADS) to assess family need. We recommend families use the
online application. If you would prefer a paper copy, contact TADS at
www.tads.com or call (800) 477-8237.
Applications are due January 1 of each year. Applications received after that date will be reviewed on a rolling basis if/and as funds become available.
Can the financial information I submit to other schools via SSS be transferred to Putney?
No, Putney uses Tuition Aid Data Services (TADS -
www.tads.com) for assessment service.
When will I be notified of a financial aid decision?
Once a candidate has been accepted for admission, the Financial Aid Committee determines a grant amount for eligible candidates who have completed all of the required forms by the deadline. Admission decisions and financial aid packages are mailed from Putney on March 10, along with the tuition and fees schedule for the following year. Families who did not meet the January 1 deadline may not be included in that initial allotment of financial aid.
What if my child is placed on a waiting list for financial aid?
A student may receive notification of acceptance to the school but be placed on a financial aid waiting list if the family's financial need is greater than funds available. Therefore, filing by the deadline is not always a guarantee that financial aid will be awarded. If aid funds become available later in the spring or summer months, they will be awarded to students on the financial aid waiting list.
Does a financial aid award need to be repaid?
Grants are a gift—or scholarship—from The Putney School; there is no expectation of repayment. It is hoped that alumni will contribute to the school to allow future generations to experience the same opportunities.
Does Putney have a loan program?
Although Putney does not offer a loan program, there are various options available to help ease the strain of tuition on a family's budget. Those who do receive financial aid also find payment plans and loans helpful in bridging the gap between their award and the family's monthly budget.
Click here to learn about various options for payment plans and loans.
Whom should I contact if I have questions regarding financial aid?
