Financial Aid
As a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), The O’Neal School provides financial aid on the basis of demonstrated family financial need. O’Neal strives to make it possible for all students who qualify for admission to attend our school. Each year The O’Neal School sets aside funds to provide need-based financial aid grants to students whose families demonstrate that they cannot afford to pay the full tuition from their own resources.
In determining a family’s eligibility for financial aid grants, O’Neal considers a need analysis provided by the Tuition Aid Data Services (TADS). This assessment takes into account a family’s income, savings, assets and liabilities, as well as any special circumstances. Much of the information requested is found on a family’s 1040 IRS form. Approximately one in five students currently attending O’Neal receives financial aid.
Prior to receiving any financial aid award, each applicant must complete The O’Neal School admissions process. (The admissions process and financial aid process can proceed simultaneously. However, no award will be made until the student has been admitted.) Financial aid is awarded independently of the admissions process and is based solely upon financial need and availability of funds.
Financial Aid Process
- Complete the TADS application form online with the $29.00 online processing fee at www.TADS.com on the TADS secure Web site. If you are unable to apply online please call the admission office for other arrangements. After applying, please mail the required forms, complete 1040 tax returns and W-2 statements to TADS. (or fax to TADS at 612-548-3236) In cases of divorce, O’Neal requires that both parents file financial aid forms, in order to provide the Financial Aid Committee with a full picture of family resources.
- The deadline for first round financial aid consideration is March 1, 2010.
- TADS makes a recommendation to the O’Neal Financial Aid Committee. Financial aid recipients are notified in late March. All remaining financial aid awards are distributed on a rolling basis.
- First consideration is given to current families already receiving financial aid and to current families applying for the first time. Grants continue to be awarded until funds are depleted.
- All inquiries and applications for financial aid are held in the strictest confidence. Parents are notified of a financial aid award in writing. Parents must sign and return the Financial Aid Agreement.
www.TADS.com