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Olympia Waldorf School

Tuition Adjustment

The Tuition Adjustment program addresses the needs of families who are unable to pay full tuition. Tuition Adjustment is available to all students from 1st to 8th grade. Very limited funding is available for Early Childhood programs. If cost is a concern, please don’t rule us out — this program exists so that families can choose Waldorf education. When in doubt, apply.

There are no discounts or adjustments for fees or extended care programs. All awards are subject to funding and based on need.

2026–2027 Application Process

Enrolled families are welcome to complete a TA application when applications open on December 19th. Families seeking new student admission may also submit a TA application if they have submitted an inquiry and completed a campus tour.

Apply online with BeneFAQ:

  1. 1 Navigate to www.benefaq.com and create a new account.
  2. 2 Select the “Parent” button from the upper right and register.
  3. 3 Click “Create a New Application” and enter school number 55081.
  4. 4 Enter credit card details — the $35 charge appears as “BeneFAQ.”
  5. 5 Complete all sections carefully (green = completed). Click “Save and Continue” at the bottom of each page.
  6. 6 After submitting, upload required documents. BeneFAQ may request additional clarifications.

Timeline — Returning Families

Application Window: December 19, 2025 – February 27, 2026

Adjustment offers are considered in the order received. The process typically takes 2 weeks from receipt of a thorough and complete application. Offers are sent electronically and contain deadlines for acceptance or appeal.

Timeline — New Families

Application Window: December 19, 2025 – March 27, 2026

Apply by March 27 for priority consideration. We continue to welcome and review applications after that date and will work with families as funds allow — if you’re interested, please apply or reach out. New student TA applications may be submitted if the family has an inquiry on file and has attended a campus tour.

Talk to us about cost

Worried about affording tuition? Tell us a little about your family and we'll reach out — no obligation, and it won't affect admission.

Which grade(s) are you interested in? (optional)

Tuition Adjustment FAQ

What is Tuition Adjustment?

A financial award deducted from tuition, designed to bridge the gap between tuition and the amount families can afford.

Who can apply?

Families currently attending OWS and families who have applied for admission. Priority is given to students in the grades.

Will my family qualify?

The BeneFAQ system considers income, expenses, assets and liabilities to recommend an award. A good rule of thumb: if in doubt, apply. Many factors are considered and there is no specific income cutoff.

What is a typical award amount?

The school can offer up to 50% of tuition based on demonstrated need. No discounts are available for fees or extended care.

Will applying affect our admission?

No. Admission is determined without any consideration of finances. A full tuition contract is issued first, with a separate adjustment award if applicable.

Do we have to re-apply each year?

Yes. You must also create a new BeneFAQ account each year. Returning families get priority funding if they apply by the deadline.

How do separated or divorced parents apply?

Both parents are expected to apply. BeneFAQ keeps financial information separate and confidential. Both parents' income is considered since adjustment is based on ability to pay.

Questions?

For BeneFAQ application issues, use the “Messages” link in the portal or email help@benefaq.com.

For general TA questions, contact president@olympiawaldorf.org.

Ready to apply?

Start with an inquiry if you haven't already.

Admissions Info