+ More Details

Variable Tuition allows families to apply for a reduced tuition rate that is based on their family’s unique financial situation. While every family is expected to contribute to the cost of tuition and to support BCCS, the Variable Tuition program offers families an appropriate tuition level, making a quality Christian school education accessible for more families within our community. By making a BCCS education accessible, we will have the opportunity to expand the reach of Christian education to more members of our community.

+ How Does it Work?

Any family (current or new) of a junior kindergarten through eighth grade student may apply for Variable Tuition if they are concerned about the cost of tuition at BCCS. Many factors are considered when determining the tuition amount a family is able to pay, including income, family size, total tuition, and unusual expenses. This is collected through and reviewed by a third party: FACTS Grant & Aid.

*Families who do not apply for variable tuition will pay the top end of the variable tuition range.

+ Should every BCCS family submit an application for Variable Tuition?

No. Only families who feel that they may not be able to pay the top end of the Variable Tuition should submit an application.

+ What is requested tuition?

At BCCS, no family pays the full cost of education. The actual cost of education at Byron Center Christian is almost $9,000 per student (known as requested tuition), but we do not require families to pay that amount. This is because funds from our Foundation, Parents' Club, and the New Life Thrift Store are passed directly to families. If your family is financially blessed and does not need (all or a portion of) the grants, please consider paying the requested tuition. This allows us to continue to improve our educational programs and further assist families in need. You may do this by selecting the Requested Tuition amount in your enrollment packet or contacting the office at any time. You will receive a receipt from BCCS for this tax-deductible donation. Thank you in advance for your support of this community.

+ What about preschool?

Variable Tuition only applies to students in junior kindergarten through eighth grade. If you only have children enrolling in preschool at BCCS, you should not apply for Variable Tuition. If you are enrolling a preschool student in addition to older students in JK-8th, you may apply for Variable Tuition.

+ How do I apply?

All Variable Tuition applications must be submitted online to FACTS Grant & Aid. There is a $25 fee to apply. Click here to begin the FACTS Grant & Aid Application or contact Andy Reidsma for more information or with questions on how to apply.

+ Who typically qualifies for Variable Tuition?

Family circumstances vary. While some families can afford only minimal tuition, others can afford to pay around the midpoint or almost at the top of the tuition level. Many factors are evaluated, including income, assets, unusual expenses, and the size of the family.

+ Will applying for Variable Tuition affect my child’s admission status?

No. An application for Variable Tuition does not affect the re-enrollment or admissions process.

+ What will my tuition amount be?

Because the formula used to calculate variable tuition considers many factors, it is not possible to estimate the tuition level for which a family qualifies without the completion of a Variable Tuition application. Applications are submitted directly to FACTS, a third-party agency. FACTS evaluates the application based on criteria set by the school and makes a recommendation to the school’s Variable Tuition team. Families are notified of the tuition level for which they qualify by the school.

Families who do not apply for variable tuition pay required tuition.

+ Upon completion of my application, when will I receive confirmation of my Variable tuition amount?

Please note that applications must be fully completed, verfied, and all required paperwork must be submitted to FACTS in order for applications to be released to BCCS for review. That includes tax returns.

Typically, variable tuition confirmations are sent in May. Responses to families will fall into two categories: an offer of Variable Tuition or notification that a family does not qualify for Variable Tuition.

+ What if I receive support from my church or employer?

BCCS is blessed to partner with many area churches who provide significant tuition support to their families. As in previous years, you should apply to your church first. Your church will use the top end in the tuition chart amount when determining the amount of assistance they can provide.

+ Does Everyone who applies receive Variable Tuition?

No, not every family will meet the financial qualifications to receive Variable Tuition.

+ If I do not qualify, can I re-apply the following year?

Yes. A family that does not qualify one year is welcome to reapply the following year.

+ Do I need to apply for Variable Tuition every year?

Yes. A new application must be submitted every year.

+ Will Variable Tuition lead to larger class sizes?

No. Our class size guidelines will not be changed.

+ Who should I contact with questions?

Questions about Variable Tuition should be directed to Missy Walters at walters@bccs.org or Andy Reidsma at reidsma@bccs.org.