Admissions > FAQ >  Financial Aid 
It's important to us that you feel informed about every aspect of the Nichols admissions process. Below are some answers to questions we receive from many families. Questions about Tuition, Financial Aid and Transportation are common as well. We are always happy to answer any additional questions you may have. Just call us at 716-332-6325.

International Students should read this information. (Requires Acrobat reader.)
Is financial aid available at Nichols?
The school realizes that not all students can afford the entire cost of tuition, and is committed to making Nichols a "possible dream" for as many students as we can. Financial aid to families is in the form of tuition assistance (grants). At Nichols, families must demonstrate financial need to receive assistance.
Who qualifies for financial aid?
There are many factors that affect award decisions, including a family's income, assets and number of children in tuition-charging schools. Not all accepted students receive awards. As with admissions, financial aid is awarded on a rolling basis as candidates are accepted.

The school expects parents, both custodial and non-custodial, to make every effort possible to meet the cost of their child's education. Parents should request financial assistance only after they have pursued other options.
Does Nichols offer merit scholarships?
No, aid is awarded on a need-only basis.
What are named scholarships?

At Nichols School, we are committed to making an independent school education affordable by offering need-based financial aid to qualified applicants. From this group of candidates, awards are given to selected students who are designated as Named Scholars. Scholars are chosen for their intellectual pursuits, extracurricular achievements, and promise for future growth and exploration.

To be considered for a named scholarship for the 2009- 2010 academic year, students must first apply and be accepted into Nichols School. Additionally, families must complete a financial aid application to determine eligibility. Please note: the financial aid application is due December 19, 2008. Finally, students must write a one page essay reflecting on excellence in their academic and personal achievements, as well as how they will contribute to Nichols School’s traditions of scholarship and service.

To nominate a student for a Named Scholarship please print, complete and submit this nomination form or call the office directly at (716) 332-6325.
Will applying for financial aid affect my child's chances for admission?
Acceptance to either the middle or upper school is determined by the results of entrance examinations, personal interviews, and teacher recommendations, not on your family's financial picture. 30% of Nichols students receive financial aid. When the demand for financial aid exceeds the available budget, some students are placed on a financial aid wait list and others are offered admission without financial aid. A family's financial status is not public information, and does not impact a student's ability to achieve success here. Nichols does not discriminate in admissions or the administration of its financial aid because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, or disability.
Will our financial aid change from year to year?
Families of students receiving financial aid must reapply every year. All financial aid awards are reviewed annually to ensure that recipients remain in good academic standing, contribute positively to the life of the school, and require financial assistance. If there is little change in a family's circumstances, one can expect that grants will be renewed at similar levels.
What about cases of divorce, separation, and single parents?
Nichols School will consider the income and assets of both biological parents in determining an award. If either parent has remarried, we also will consider the income and assets of stepparents, bearing in mind responsibilities that stepparents may have for their own biological children.
How do I apply for financial aid?
A family who seeks financial aid should request a Parents' Financial Statement (PFS) form from the Director of Financial Aid. This PFS form should be completed and sent prior to December 19, 2008 to the School and Student Service for Financial Aid (SSS). Additionally, parents should submit a copy of the PFS form, a copy of their 2007 1040 Federal Income Tax Returns (include all forms), and W-2 forms to Nichols School’s Financial Aid Office by December 19, 2008. (2008 Taxes should be sent after April 15, 2009).