We are dedicated to making an Athenian education accessible to as many families as possible. With a financial aid program that reduces the cost of tuition for eligible families, Athenian is a within-reach option for admitted students.
Tuition & Fees
We understand that choosing an independent school is a significant investment, and we’re committed to being transparent about the costs involved. Below, you’ll find information about our maximum tuition and fees for the 2025-26 school year. The fees listed in the drop down menus are related to required programs and student experiences. For families receiving financial aid, fees are adjusted proportionally. Please note that these are approximate costs.
Meals & Transportation
Though not required, nearly 90% of our students enroll in our lunch program. We also offer a breakfast program (breakfast is served between 7:30 - 8:05 AM). Please note that meals are included in boarding but not day student tuition. Here is more information on our dining services.
| Lunch Plan | Full year: $1,850 | Semester plan: $1,050 |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast Plan | Full year: $990 | Semester plan: $580 |
Many of our students also take advantage of our transportation program which is not included in tuition. Cost ranges from $630-$2,750 based on the route. Here is more information on transportation to Athenian and route schedules.
Payment Plans & Financial Aid
Athenian uses the Clarity Application to determine a family's tuition level. The application asks for information on family assets, income, expenses, and debts. Once completed through Clarity, the application is shared with Mission Enrollment for an additional review and assessment. This additional partner (Mission Enrollment) ensures an equitable and impartial review of the application and recommended tuition level. Details on how to apply for financial aid are provided below along with an FAQ.
The application typically takes under 30 minutes to complete, is mobile-friendly, and allows you to save your progress and return later. A $60 submission fee applies, but you can share your application with additional participating schools at no extra cost. If the fee poses a hardship, please contact the Admission Office.
*Returning Athenian families who have previously applied for financial aid do not need to create a new account.
Note: Clarity provides a secure and efficient way to handle data and tax information. As part of the process, you’ll complete an IRS Form 4506-C (IVES Request for Transcript of Tax Return), granting Clarity direct access to the necessary tax documentation.
Clarity’s Quick References:
All families are eligible for Athenian’s payment plans. We offer 1, 2, 7, or 10 month plans to spread the cost of an Athenian education over multiple payments The seven (7) and ten (10) payment plan requires tuition insurance and a billing fee which totals 3.1 percent of the amount your family pays.
Other Financial Considerations
During your student’s time at Athenian, they’ll have the opportunity to participate in a range of optional activities, including international exchanges and international and domestic travel (courses and conferences). While the school often provides these opportunities below cost, they typically involve a family contribution as well. In addition, we advise families to expect an additional $1,500-$2,500* a year for supplies and miscellaneous school-related expenses.
And finally, every Athenian family is asked to make an Annual Fund gift each year. There is no set gift amount as every family's situation is different. Please plan to make an annual fund gift that is personally meaningful to your family.
*Families receiving financial aid will have all required expenses reduced at the same rate as their tuition.
How does the school determine the tuition amount for my family?
To be considered for a reduced tuition rate, families must complete and submit the Clarity Application for tuition assistance. As part of this process, you will need to authorize Clarity to access your tax returns through the IRS. Clarity will then provide Athenian with an estimated family tuition amount for review. The Clarity methodology takes into account a family’s gross taxable and non-taxable income, assets, liabilities, unusual expenses, family size, and the number of students in tuition-charging schools or colleges. After allowances for basic necessities and taxes, as well as a cost of living adjustment for the San Francisco Bay Area, a portion of the remaining funds are considered available for education.
Who determines how much tuition we can pay?
Athenian partners with Mission Enrollment to review financial aid applications, ensuring fairness and confidentiality. Mission Enrollment may contact you via Clarity's messaging system on Athenian's behalf for clarifications or additional documentation.
How many families pay less than the maximum tuition?
26% of our students receive financial aid. Note: We often have more requests for financial aid than our budget can support.
Is there a fee waiver for families applying?
Fee waivers are automatically granted through Clarity if a family qualifies. Clarity uses the income and asset information in the application to determine eligibility for a fee waiver. Qualifying families will bypass all payment screens when their Clarity Application is complete.
What assets will be considered in determining my family's tuition amount?
In addition to salary, the following assets are considered on the application: equity in your home and any other properties, checking and savings, stocks, and bonds. In most cases, retirement funds (401K, 503b, IRA, etc.) are not used in this equation. All financial information submitted by family’s is held in strict confidence.
How are different family structures considered (i.e. single parents, guardianship, divorced families, never married, etc.)?
Each parent/guardian of the child must apply and provide required financial documentation. Please contact Yocelin González, Director of Enrollment Management if you have any questions or concerns about this process.
What if our family chooses to not apply this year, but needs to in the future?
If affordability becomes a challenge due to a change in circumstances, we encourage families to apply for financial aid through Clarity.
Do families currently paying the maximum tuition need to apply or submit financial documents?
No. Only families who want to be considered for financial aid need to apply and submit financial documentation.
Will applying affect my child's chances for admission?
Admission and tuition decisions are made separately. However, Athenian depends on tuition revenue for much of our program and thus cannot meet the tuition needs of all families.
Do we have to reapply each year?
Yes, each family's tuition amount is reviewed annually. Significant changes in a family's financial circumstances may increase or decrease the amount a family contributes.
What if I have questions or concerns about the tuition the school expects me to pay?
Please contact Yocelin González, Director of Enrollment Management to address any concerns.
How do I apply?
To be considered for a tuition amount less than the maximum, you must complete the Clarity Application. Both parents and stepparents must complete a financial aid application. The Clarity Application is completed online at the Clarity website. Contact the Admission Office if you have trouble applying or if you have any questions.
When must applications be completed to be considered for a tuition amount less than the maximum?
Families new to Athenian have a deadline of January 9, 2026. Current families with an applicant sibling, have a deadline of December 17, 2025.
What if I need help completing the application?
Contact Clarity for assistance with the application at [email protected] For all other questions, contact the Athenian Admission Office.
.jpg)
