Affording Shefa

The Shefa School is committed to making our education affordable to everyone who needs it. Finances should never be a barrier to a Shefa education! We welcome any family interested in joining our community to apply, and we are here to help make sure that you can afford a Shefa education for your child.
Our admissions process does not consider a family’s financial situation when deciding whether to admit a student. Financial aid is awarded solely on demonstrated financial need, not on academic performance or other factors. Our Tuition Assistance Committee reviews all financial aid applications confidentially and makes decisions based on the School’s mission, values, and policies.
Students may be eligible for tuition reimbursement from their local public school district.
Please reach out to our Admissions Office to find out how we can assist you in starting your journey.

What is the tuition for the 2025-2026 school year?

Tuition for the 2025-26 school year is $88,500. The quality of Shefa’s education relies upon small student-teacher ratios and highly-skilled and caring teachers, who continually work to hone their craft. Providing this specialized program in a state-of-the art facility and recruiting and retaining our exceptional staff require significant resources. Please note that Shefa’s tuition does not cover the full cost of each student’s education, and we deeply appreciate the additional philanthropic support of our families, alumni, Board and the broader Jewish community

Is funding for tuition available from my local district of education?

Every child has the right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Because of this, your family may be able to get tuition reimbursement from your local public school district. We encourage you to speak to an educational attorney to learn more. We can share a list of educational attorneys upon request.
If you are seeking tuition reimbursement and are concerned about tuition costs while going through the process, Shefa offers extended payment plan options. Families complete a financial assistance application, and the Tuition Assistance Committee determines if they are eligible for reduced monthly payments in order to make Shefa’s tuition affordable. For more information, please call the Admissions Team. 

How is financial need determined?

Financial need is the gap between the cost of attending The Shefa School and what a family can afford to pay. Families need to fill out an application with a third party, FACTS, and upload important financial documents. You are also encouraged to provide extra documents and explanations to show why you need financial help for the next school year. The more specific, transparent, and complete the information, the more the committee is able to help. The Tuition Assistance Committee reviews completed applications, taking into account the third party’s report, other possible sources of support, and any special circumstances.

What is the difference between financial aid and an extended payment plan?

Like many schools, Shefa offers financial aid to a limited number of families in need, which reduces the total amount of tuition owed, based on the family’s unique financial circumstances.
Another option is an extended payment plan (EPP). If you qualify, an EPP allows you to make lower monthly payments over a longer period of time.
Both financial aid and EPPs are awarded by the Tuition Assistance Committee based on your family’s full financial picture. The process for applying uses the same third-party service (FACTS), and funds are limited, so families with greater need and those applying earlier in the annual cycle are prioritized.

Should I apply for tuition assistance before I know if my child has been admitted?

Yes! All tuition assistance applications must be submitted during the admissions process so that we can award financial aid or an EPP, if you qualify, prior to an admissions decision. It typically takes a couple of weeks for the committee to review the application and request clarifications, if needed. Financial need is not considered as part of the admissions process, but if you wait to apply until an admissions offer is made, the tuition assistance package may not arrive before the deadline for signing the enrollment contract.

I’m concerned about this process and how I might afford Shefa. What should I do?

The financial aid, extended payment plan and tuition reimbursement processes can be confusing. You are not alone! Please reach out to the Admissions Office, and we will be happy to guide you.