FAQs

What do I need to submit to apply for financial aid?

  • January 15, 2011 - The PFS and application fee should be sent directly to SSS no later than this date.
  • February 1, 2011 - Cate School's Financial Aid Request Form must be returned to the admission office by this date.
  • February 15, 2011 - A draft or copy of your 2010 1040 tax forms and supporting schedules must be submitted to Cate by this date.

What if I do not have my 2010 taxes prepared by February 15, 2011?

While we will grant extensions, no official award can be made until a draft or copy of your 2010 tax return is on file in our office. Tax returns submitted after this date will be considered on an "as funding is available" basis.

Will a request for financial aid influence the admission decision?

No. Cate bases its acceptance of students on academic ability, achievement, personal qualities, etc.

Do ways exist, aside from financial aid at Cate, to help families meet education expenses?

Cate has a ten-month tuition payment plan available through Key Education Resources. Key also provides a tuition loan program for families.

Is there a repayment obligation involved when a family receives aid from Cate?

No. All awards are need-based grants, not loans.

Is a student receiving financial aid required to assume extra responsibilities at Cate?

No.

Is financial aid renewed each year automatically?

Cate asks families receiving financial aid to reapply each year. However, once financial aid has been awarded, it is reasonable to expect that it will be renewed each year, providing a family's situation does not change substantially. Changes in a family's financial situation could result in an increase or decrease in financial aid, depending on individual circumstances.

Does the fact that other children in a family are attending tuition-charging schools influence Cate's financial aid decision?

Yes. One of the factors that influences the decision is the family's financial commitment to education. Cate takes into account the amount of discretionary income for education that can be divided among all children attending tuition-charging schools.

Does home equity influence the financial aid decision?

Home equity is considered in SSS methodology, along with other assets.

What happens if the parents are divorced or separated?

Cate considers the assets of both natural parents and/or stepparents before making an award and cannot be bound by the assertion that one parent has disclaimed responsibility for educational expenses. In this situation, the custodial parent fills out the PFS and submits it to SSS. Non-custodial parents and stepparents must also complete a PFS and submit it directly to Cate. It is the custodial parent's responsibility to ensure that this procedure is completed.

Is there a minimum or maximum income a family must have in order to be considered for financial aid?

No. Net income is not the only factor used in making financial aid decisions. Assets, debts, and number of dependents are among the various factors that Cate considers, and these factors may have an influence on financial aid decisions.

Does SSS provide the funds for financial aid?

No. Cate uses its own resources for financial aid.