For many families, the idea of a top-tier boarding school like Episcopal High School comes with an immediate, daunting number: our comprehensive fee of $74,900 for the 2025-26 school year. We understand that "sticker shock" can be a powerful deterrent, leading some to assume that an EHS education is simply out of reach. But here at EHS, we want to challenge that assumption, and encourage every family with a talented and motivated student to explore the true possibilities.
The truth is, over 35% of our students receive financial assistance, with the average grant awarded to families being a substantial $54,619. This means that for a significant portion of our student body, the actual out-of-pocket cost is far less than the published fee.
Could EHS be an attainable option for your family?
Let's consider families who are currently managing to pay a considerable sum for a strong private day school education in cities like Charlotte, Atlanta, or Nashville. Tuition at many of the leading day schools in these vibrant Southern hubs can range from $25,000 to over $40,000 annually for high school.
If you are a family comfortably managing a tuition of, say, $30,000-$40,000 for a day school, you might be surprised to learn that you could absolutely qualify for significant financial aid at EHS. Our financial aid program is designed to bridge the gap between our comprehensive fee and a family's demonstrated ability to pay.
What does "demonstrated ability to pay" mean at EHS?
We use Clarity, a secure and comprehensive online platform, to assess each family's financial need. Clarity takes a holistic view of your financial situation, considering:
• Income: This isn't just about your salary; it considers all sources of income for both parents.
• Assets: Your savings, investments, and other significant holdings.
• Expenses: Necessary living expenses, outstanding debts, and other financial obligations are factored in.
• Family Size: The number of dependents and, crucially, the number of children in tuition-charging schools.
• Unique Circumstances: We understand that life can present unforeseen financial challenges, and Clarity allows for these to be considered.
For families with a gross family income between $150,000 and $299,000, the average family contribution at EHS for 2024-25 was in the $28,000-$32,000 range. This data directly reflects that many families with comfortable, but not exorbitant, incomes are indeed receiving substantial financial aid that brings their contribution into a range comparable to, or even less than, what they might pay for a premier day school.
Why the Investment in EHS is Different:
It's vital to remember that our comprehensive fee covers a truly immersive 100% boarding experience. This isn't just tuition for classes. It includes:
• Room and Board: Your child's home away from home, with faculty living on campus for support and mentorship.
• Health Center Expenses: Basic care and wellness support.
• Most School-Sponsored Activities: From academic trips to athletic equipment and weekend recreational outings – no hidden fees for these vital components of the EHS experience.
• Technology and Supplies: Laptops, course materials, and more are often included.
This all-inclusive model means that while the sticker price might initially seem high, the true cost often aligns more closely with what a family might piece together for a top-tier day school once all the "extras" are accounted for.
Don't Let Sticker Shock Limit Your Child's Future.
Episcopal High School is committed to cultivating a diverse and talented student body. We believe that socio-economic diversity enriches our entire community, fostering a wider range of perspectives that prepares our graduates to thrive in an increasingly complex world.
If you envision a transformative boarding school experience for your child – one that combines rigorous academics, a vibrant residential community, unparalleled opportunities for leadership and personal growth, and a unique proximity to the cultural and political hub of Washington, D.C. – then we urge you to take the next step.
We are need-blind in our admissions process, meaning your ability to pay will not influence whether your child is accepted. Our focus is on finding the right students who will contribute to and benefit from the EHS experience.
Apply, connect with our team, and discover the true affordability of an Episcopal High School education. You might be surprised at how close your dream for your child truly is.
