Your Financial Aid Questions Get Answered Here!
BFS Financial Aid and Grant Program
The mission of Brooklyn Friends School emphasizes a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. A key component of this commitment is the school’s financial aid program, which helps ensure that families from varying economic backgrounds can access a Brooklyn Friends School education. Through these efforts, BFS continues to reinforce diversity and hold true to our core values.
Financial Aid and Grants are available for students from Early Childhood through Grade 12 and are granted on the basis of need and the availability of funds.
Who gets Financial Aid at BFS?
Typically, about a quarter of our students receive close to $7 million in financial aid and grants. Families who wish to apply, do so through our partner, Clarity, which works closely with BFS in determining need. Families can receive more information at www.clarityschools.com.
Where does the Financial Aid come from?
Funding for financial aid and grants comes from the school’s operating budget and charitable gifts. Brooklyn Friends gives priority consideration to children of Quaker families, BFS colleagues, alumni, and siblings. However, financial aid is not guaranteed even for members of these priority groups.
Are my Early Childhood students eligible?
Yes! As of 2024, applicants to our Early Childhood Four’s program are eligible to apply for need-based financial aid. Those considering our Early Childhood Two’s and Three’s programs may apply for a financial grant. Please note, not all families who apply for grants will qualify, however every family who qualifies and enrolls will receive some level of assistance.
What is the difference between Financial Aid and a Grant for Early Childhood?
Financial aid is designed to help reduce school costs and is determined through a detailed evaluation of a family’s financial need (income, assets, debt, etc.) A grant, on the other hand, is a fixed, predetermined amount awarded to families based on their demonstrated financial need.
What are the main criteria for receiving Financial Aid at BFS?
The primary factors in determining financial aid awards include, but are not limited to: net income, assets (home equity, property, savings, investments, etc.), debts (home mortgages, college loans, etc), number of dependents, number of children who attend tuition-charging schools, and other potential factors. Consideration is given to parents/guardians who are nearing retirement age, families who have young children, or who are financially responsible for elderly family members, and other factors that can affect a family’s financial security. The financial circumstances of all caretakers are considered when determining a financial aid award, whether custodial parents or not.
When will my family find out if we will receive Financial Aid?
Families will be notified of their financial aid award alongside their admittance decision to BFS. If the award offered does not feel feasible, a family may choose to submit a written appeal to the Director of Enrollment Management at financialaid@brooklynfriends.org.
Do Quaker families get special treatment?
If you are a member of the New York Quarterly Meeting, you may also apply for aid through the New York Quarterly Education Fund. Priority is given to students who are attending Quaker schools. Contact the Quarter for more details.
