Financial Aid

A Sacred Heart education is an investment in your child’s future. Providing an independent school education requires careful financial planning, and it is important to understand that families are expected to bear the cost according to their means and ability to pay.

Since its founding, Stuart has been committed to offering financial aid to qualified applicants who provide evidence of need. Currently, 20 percent of our students receive financial aid. Questions about the financial-aid process may be directed to Anne Pierpont, Director of Financial Aid, at apierpont@stuartschool.org or 609.921.2330 x 275.

How to Apply

Stuart is a member of the School and Student Service for Financial Aid (SSS), a service of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). This organization assists families in determining their eligibility for financial aid. We encourage you to visit their Website, as it contains a wealth of information on financing your child’s education.

The First Step

Families need to submit a Parents Financial Statement (PFS). Forms can be obtained at the Stuart Financial Aid Office, but it is recommended that this form be completed online via the SSS Online Website beginning November 1, 2009. The deadline for submission to be considered for the 2010-2011 academic year is January 21, 2010 for returning students and January 28, 2010 for new students. The form should be sent directly to SSS (School Code 7534) and parents should have a copy sent to themselves (Parent Code 9000). Questions about the PFS can be directed to the SSS Financial Aid Helpline at (866) 387-2601 (M-F, 8 am – 4 pm EST).

Step Two

All Financial Aid applicants (both new and renewing) must submit a signed copy of their income tax return for the tax year ending December 31, 2009. This must be submitted to SSS by February 10, 2010.

Step Three

Stuart’s Financial Aid committee meets in the spring to review requests for the following year. New applicants applying after the deadline will be considered if funds are still available.

Important Deadlines

Parents Financial Form Submitted –
   January 21, 2010 (for returning students)
   January 28, 2010 (for new students)
Copy of 2009 Tax Return Submitted to SSS –
   February 10, 2010

Resources

NAIS Website
Peterson’s Financial Aid Webpage
A Better Chance Website
New Jersey SEEDS Website
Stuart Financial Aid Brochure

Additional Aid Options

Many banks offer education loans to qualified borrowers. Check your lender for options that may fit into your family’s unique financial situation.

Another great potential resource is the parent’s place of employment. Check with your Human Resources department to determine if your company has any educational benefits.

A third way to finance a private education is through merit-based awards. Stuart’s Janet Stuart Scholar Program is offered to Upper School students of high academic achievement. Many civic, religious and philanthropic organizations also offer scholarships to students attending private schools.

Contact


Director of Financial Aid
609.921.2330 x 275