Financial Aid
At SSFS, our commitment to a supportive, inclusive learning environment guides the approach of our financial aid program. In keeping with the Quaker principles of equality and diversity, the School seeks a student body that represents varied economic backgrounds, and strives to be affordable, culturally competent, and inclusive. Through our need-based financial aid program, we aim to support all families for whom the cost of an SSFS education would be a hardship.
How does financial aid work?
Prospective and current families seeking financial assistance are asked to submit an application through School and Student Services (SSS) by Community Brands. SSS does not provide a source of funding—their role is to provide our Financial Aid Committee with an estimated family contribution (EFC) toward education. The Financial Aid Committee uses this EFC as a tool to determine an appropriate grant for each student, while keeping within Sandy Spring Friends School’s overall financial aid budget for the year. The School’s Financial Aid Committee makes the final determination of the need-based financial aid award for each student.
Who receives financial aid?
Gross Household Income for families receiving Financial Aid.
Applying for Financial Aid: a Step-by-Step Guide
Sandy Spring Friends School would not be the same without the contributions of students who receive financial aid. Learn how to apply!
- Step 1: Apply for Admission
- Step 2: Submit Financial Aid Application
- Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
- Step 4: Receive Admission and Financial Aid Decisions
Step 1: Apply for Admission
Step 2: Submit Financial Aid Application
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
Step 4: Receive Admission and Financial Aid Decisions
Financial Aid FAQ
- Should my family apply for financial aid?
- How are financial aid awards determined by SSFS?
- What information do we need to share to apply for financial aid?
- When will I be notified of a financial aid decision?
- Do we need to reapply for financial aid every year?
- Are payment plans are available at SSFS?
Should my family apply for financial aid?
How are financial aid awards determined by SSFS?
What information do we need to share to apply for financial aid?
When will I be notified of a financial aid decision?
Do we need to reapply for financial aid every year?
Are payment plans are available at SSFS?
Supporting You During Unexpected Times of Need
Here at SSFS, we understand life happens. To help families through unexpected financial challenges, we designate funding specifically to assist current families with changed circumstances. Transition funds are designed to bridge the gap and maintain continuity for our students and families when unexpected events occur. Typically, they are granted for a year to assist families through challenging times. If you find yourself facing a sudden challenge, please be in touch with Dawn Griffith, Director of Financial Aid.
Endowed Scholarships and Partner Organizations
Sandy Spring Friends School is pleased to partner with and benefit from relationships that allow us to advance equity and justice in education.
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Partner Organizations
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Endowed Scholarships
Generous benefactors have provided lasting gifts to Sandy Spring Friends School through our Endowed Scholarships program. These scholarships, often named in memory or honor of loved ones, provide financial assistance to qualified students desiring a Sandy Spring Friends School education.
- The Ben Uzzell ‘20 Scholarship
- The Clouse Family Fund
- The Jon Brian Kinney Scholarship
- The Katie Kinney Scholarship
- The Lexi Speight Scholarship
$5M
Awarded annually in financial aid
40%
Percentage of Student Body That Receives Financial Aid
K-12
Grade levels eligible for grants applying to tuition, bus transportation, aftercare, and Upper School intersession
Dawn Griffith
Director of Financial Aid & Preschool Admission
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Don't Miss a Deadline!
Financial aid is a highly deadline-driven process. Please take note of these important dates:
- Nov. 15: Current Family Application Deadline
- Jan. 15: New (prospective) Family Application Deadline
Financial Aid applications received after Jan. 15 will be reviewed on a funds-available basis.