AFFORDING A WATERSHED EDUCATION
Many families need assistance in order to make it possible to invest in a Watershed education. While we expect all families to contribute to the cost of our program, roughly 20-25% of Watershed families benefit from Tuition Assistance to help bridge the gap. If financial concerns are a barrier to your application, we encourage you to apply for Tuition Assistance.
how to apply for tuition assistance
STEP 1: smartaid ApplicatioN
Watershed School utilizes the SmartAid application system.
Click on this LINK to begin the process. Detailed instructions and frequently asked questions may be viewed or downloaded through the 'Tuition Assistance Instructions' provided below.
Please note that it may take up to 2 weeks for your application and supporting tax documents to be processed. We suggest beginning the process well in advance of the school's deadline.
STEP 2: tuition assistance Committee Review
Each application will be reviewed by the Tuition Assistance Committee, which grants aid on the basis of demonstrated financial need and the availability of funds. The Committee must balance the family’s ability to pay tuition against standards that ensure equitable distribution of awards. Award decisions are based on the SMARTAID assessment and factors such as income, assets, extenuating circumstances and a demonstrated commitment to a Watershed School education.
IMPORTANT DATES AND DEADLINES
New Applicants:
Early Decision for New Applicants: December 6, 2024
General Application Decisions for New Applicants: January 31, 2025
Rolling Admissions Decisions for New Applicants (as space is available): Starting February 1, 2025
Returning Families:
Re-Enrollment Documents: December 9, 2025
other forms of financial assistance
Colorado's 529 plan
CollegeInvest can be used to pay for secondary school tuition. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 allows families to use 529 plans to pay up to $10,000 per year per beneficiary for private, public, or religious elementary and secondary school tuition.
However, any use of 529 plan funds for expenses other than qualified higher education is considered a non-qualified withdrawal and may be subject to penalties.
Educational Loans
Sallie Mae – the nation’s leading provider of private student loans – offers loans to families pursuing financial aid options. Please visit the Sallie Mae K-12 Family Education Loan website to learn more about Sallie Mae educational loans. The Watershed School code is 607491.
