A Transformative Education That’s Within Reach
At The College School, we believe that every child deserves access to an education that’s meaningful, engaging, and prepares them for life. Through progressive, experiential learning, students explore the world around them—indoors and out—with curiosity, courage, and purpose.
We know that choosing an independent school is a major decision, and affordability matters. That’s why we are proud to offer need-based financial assistance that reflects the unique opportunities our students experience every day.
2025–2026 Tuition
Full Day Preschool – 3 Days (T-W-Th) – $16,340
Half Day Preschool (3/4s only) – 5 Days (M-F) – $17,670
Full Day Preschool – 5 Days (M-F) – $24,045
Kindergarten – Eighth Grade – $25,980
Tuition includes:
– Off-campus field studies equipment & overnight adventure gear
– Specialist classes in Art, Music, Spanish, Drama, Physical Education, and Greenhouse
– Access to our 28-acre outdoor campus in Pacific, MO
– Lunch and Field Trip Lunches
– Technology
Additional fees:
Adventure Fee
$435-$840 (Pre-Fifth Range)
$1,495-$2,285 (Sixth-Eighth Range)
Helps Cover TCS’ Off-Campus Adventures and Field Trips
Parent Crew Fee
$40
Helps covers select Parent Crew initiatives throughout the school year
Tuition Assistance
We are committed to making a College School education accessible to a diverse range of families. Our Tuition Assistance Program offers financial aid based on demonstrated need, and awards are made independently of admission decisions.
Fast Facts:
– 42% of enrolled students receive aid
– Awards range from 10% to 50% of tuition
How to Apply:
The application typically takes less than 30 minutes to complete. The Clarity Application is also mobile-friendly so you can complete it from anywhere. There is a $65 fee to submit the application. Please remember to return to your dashboard after you complete and submit your Clarity Application, as we require you to upload additional tax documentation including your W-2s (if applicable) and tax return.
Step 1
Go to https://app.clarityapp.com/sign-up.
Step 2
Begin your application and add The College School to your student applicant entry. You can save your application and log out at any time and return later to complete it.
Step 3
Complete your application and pay the $65 Clarity application fee.
Step 4
Complete the Clarity Enhanced Tax Verification (ETV) process to release your W2 and personal tax return transcripts from the IRS. You’ll be asked to authorize the sharing of your tax transcripts and verify your identity. This is a one-time security measure required by the IRS to protect against identity theft and the compromise of personal information. Only those filing US taxes will be prompted to complete this step. Please review the step-by-step walkthrough of this process.
Step 5
Submit your Clarity application and follow the link to return to your dashboard to upload any additional supporting documents requested by schools. Non-U.S. tax filers may be prompted to upload income verification and other necessary documentation. Keep in mind that at a later date, you may be prompted by the school via Clarity to upload additional documentation as needed.
For support during the process of completing your application, there is in-app support available through the “Help” button in the bottom left of the screen, as well as email and phone support at support@clarityapp.com or 206-210-3752, in both English and Spanish.
An application for tuition assistance needs to be resubmitted each year, as the pool of families receiving assistance shifts over time. Sometimes, family financial circumstances change considerably (e.g. job loss, etc.). As a result, we ask families to re-apply for assistance each school year.
Need help? Our Admissions Office is happy to assist. Email admissions@thecollegeschool.org or call 314.962.9355.
Why Families Choose TCS
“We weren’t sure a private school would be possible for us. The tuition assistance process was clear, and now our child is thriving in a learning environment that truly understands them.”
— TCS Parent
The College School is more than a school—it’s a community of curious learners, passionate educators, and supportive families. With engaging academics, joyful outdoor experiences, and a strong social-emotional foundation, our students are prepared for what’s next—in school and in life.
Additional Resources
Explore Our Admissions Process
Learn More About Our Educational Approach
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