Family Individualized Tuition

The most important part of CWHS

Is you.

CWHS is, first and foremost, a community of individuals. We hail from five different continents, dozens of countries, and over 30 local neighborhoods. We represent a variety of different religions, genders, skin colors, abilities, and sexualities. Each of us brings something wholly unique, enhancing the richness and vibrancy of the entire school community. The Family Individualized Tuition (FIT) model is built to ensure that we can continue to welcome an ever-wider array of individuals into Chicago Waldorf High School’s socio-economically diverse community.

What is FIT?

Chicago Waldorf School uses a variable tuition model to assess each family’s financial picture to determine a tuition amount specific to each family while also considering the school’s financial costs. The FIT model is mission aligned with the school’s commitment to equity and socioeconomic diversity. No two families are identical. Experience the FIT difference.

Obtaining a FIT determination starts with a third party application to assess your family’s financial picture such as income, assets and expenses while also considering the school’s operational costs. Independent school tuition can be a financial stretch; however, after receiving your FIT determination many families find that a private Waldorf education is affordable.

2024-25 Tuition Range

$6,500 - $34,950

Household Income

Estimated annual tuition range $6,500-$12,000
Families in this range often have to make difficult choices about how best to allocate financial resources. We strive to set a FIT level for each family for which a CWS education is accessible. Annual FIT levels for families in this range are typically between $9,000 and $17,500.
Independent school tuition often seems out of reach for middle income families. We strive to set a FIT level for each family for which a CWS education is accessible. Annual FIT levels for families in this range are typically between $15,000 and $28,000.
The financial flexibility of families with incomes in this range varies widely. Factors beyond annual income - such as family size, number of dependents in tuition-charging institutions, and accrued assets - weigh heavily in determining each family's FIT level. The range of FITs in this income level range from $28,000 up to $34,950 annually.

What’s included in tuition?

Family Individualized Tuition includes all fees for traditional Waldorf high-quality organic classroom supplies, professional-grade art materials, as well as the cost for local and out-of-state trips as applicable for each grade.

Not included in your tuition is a one-time New Family Fee of $1,500 and the 12th grade Maine trip. Optional CWS fees are: athletics; aftercare; lunch program; summer camp, after-school activities, as well as music/instrument rental or private lessons.