Admissions
Tuition & Aid

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about financial aid, scholarships, and tuition at Nichols. However we recognize that each family's situation may be unique.

If you have questions about your specific circumstances or need support during the application process, our Admissions Office is happy to help. Contact us at admissions@nicholsschool.org or 716-332-6325.

Tuition, Costs & Payment Options

List of 3 frequently asked questions.

  • Q. What are the tuition rates at Nichols?

    For the 2025–26 school year:
    Grades 5–8: $29,225
    Grades 9–12: $31,350
  • Q. What payment plans are available?

    Nichols offers three options:
    • Plan A: Pay in full by late June (1% discount)
    • Plan B: Two interest-free payments
    • Plan C: Nine interest-free monthly payments
  • Q. Is there a sibling discount?

    Nichols does not offer a sibling discount. However, financial aid is available and assessed individually for each student based on family need. We understand that having multiple children in tuition charging schools impacts how much tuition a family can afford for each child.

General Overview & Eligibility

List of 4 frequently asked questions.

  • Q. What is financial aid?

    Financial aid is a grant that helps offset the cost of tuition based on your family’s demonstrated financial need. Nichols expects all families to make every reasonable effort to support their child’s education. Approximately 40% of our families receive assistance through our financial aid program.
  • Q. How are financial aid awards determined?

    All awards are based on demonstrated need. We use Clarity, a secure and user-friendly platform, to assess each family's financial profile—including income, expenses, assets, and debt. Clarity provides a recommended contribution amount, and Nichols does its best to meet 80% to 100% of each family’s demonstrated need.
  • Q. What are Named Scholarships?

    These scholarships are funded by alumni, families, and friends of Nichols to support our financial aid program. Students designated as Named Scholars are selected based on demonstrated need, academic engagement, leadership potential, and/or criteria specific to the individual scholarship. Some Named Scholarships require a separate application. If your child is selected to apply, you will receive instructions from the Admissions Office.

    For a full list of available Named Scholarships, click here.
  • Q. Do you offer merit scholarships?

    Yes. Nichols awards a limited number of Trustee Scholar Awards to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and character. If your child qualifies, our Admissions Office will reach out directly.

Application Process & Deadlines

List of 3 frequently asked questions.


Family Circumstances

List of 4 frequently asked questions.

  • Q. Will the grade my child is applying to affect financial aid decisions?

    Most financial aid awards are made at traditional entry points (grades 5 and 9). While we review all eligible applications, funding for other grades may be limited and placed in a wait pool until funds become available. Returning students are given priority.
  • Q. What if parents are divorced, separated, or have other complex family structures?

    All adults contributing to the household are expected to complete the Clarity application and submit supporting documentation. While stepparents or live-in partners are not directly responsible for tuition, their income is considered as part of the household’s financial picture.
  • Q. What if one parent is a stay-at-home caregiver?

    If a parent chooses not to work and is not caring for a young child or elderly family member, the Financial Aid Committee may factor in a basic minimum income to reflect potential earning capacity.
  • Q. What if our family owns more than one property?

    Second homes, rental properties, or vacation homes are considered part of your asset profile and will be factored into the need-based formula. In most cases, families with significant real estate holdings may not qualify for aid unless they demonstrate extenuating financial circumstances.

Award Policies & Renewal

List of 1 frequently asked questions.

  • Q. Will our financial aid award stay the same every year?

    Families must reapply each year through Clarity. If your financial circumstances remain stable, your award amount will likely remain consistent. If there’s a significant change (positive or negative), we will work with you to reassess your need. We also expect families to adjust discretionary spending in tandem with any request for increased support.

    Clarity saves your previous application details, making the renewal process quicker each year.

External Scholarships

List of 1 frequently asked questions.

Let's Talk

Admissions Office
Phone: 716-332-6325
Email: admissions@nicholsschool.org

About Us

Nichols School is a nationally recognized college preparatory coed independent school with a 130-year history.
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