Admissions

5 Smart Questions Parents Should Ask About Private School Tuition

Students playing ball at recess at Kent School

If you're considering private school for your child, understanding the true cost can feel overwhelming. It’s not just about the tuition number—it's about value, support, and transparency. To help you feel confident in your decision, here are five essential private school tuition questions to ask any school you’re considering.

1. What Does Tuition Include (and What Might Cost Extra)?

Start by understanding what you’re actually getting. Some schools offer a base tuition but charge extra for materials, technology, field trips, or athletics. Others, like Kent School, offer inclusive tuition that covers academic fees, learning materials, and most school-sponsored trips. This can make budgeting easier and help you avoid surprise expenses.

2. Is Financial Aid Available, and How Is It Determined?

Don’t assume you won’t qualify for aid—always ask. At Kent School, over 40% of students receive need-based financial aid. We partner with Clarity, a secure third-party platform, to determine a family’s ability to pay in a fair, personalized way. Our team is also available to answer questions and guide you through the process.

3. Are There Flexible Payment Options?

Ask whether the school offers multiple payment plans. Kent School provides:

  • A 10-month plan for predictable monthly payments

  • A two-payment plan for fall/spring installments

  • A single-payment plan for families who prefer to pay in full

These options can make private school more manageable within your family’s financial planning.

4. What’s the Return on Investment?

Cost matters, but so does what your child receives in return. Look for things like:

  • Student-to-teacher ratio

  • Academic support and enrichment

  • Unique programs (like Chesapeake Bay Studies)

  • Character education and emotional support

A higher tuition may reflect greater value—but only if it aligns with your child’s needs.

5. Can I Talk to Someone Before Applying?

This is one of the most important questions—and at Kent School, the answer is yes. You don’t need to apply or submit forms before speaking with our admissions team. We welcome conversations at any stage to help families make informed, pressure-free decisions.

Next Steps: Let's Start the Conversation

We’re here to support your journey. Whether you’re ready to apply or just exploring options, we invite you to reach out.

📩 Request More Information
📞 Call (410) 778-4100 to speak with our admissions team

Related Resources

You might also be interested in...

Kent School SGA 2025 School Year

A Premier Private School Alternative for Queen Anne’s County & Centreville

Searching for a private school near Centreville, MD? Discover Kent School’s unique program in Chestertown with small classes, academic rigor, Chesapeake Bay studies, and more.

Read More

Kent School students having fun and smiling for the camera

Public vs. Private School in Kent County: Finding the Right Path for Your Child

Comparing public and private schools in Kent County, Maryland? This guide helps families understand how class size, middle school structure, hands-on learning, tuition assistance, and school community can shape the right school choice for their child.

Read More

Kent School Middle School students gathered around smiling

Navigating Friendship Conflicts with Care 

Friendship conflict can be one of the most painful parts of growing up, especially during the middle school years. In this thoughtful piece, Kent School’s Dean of Students explores the difference between bullying and social conflict, why accountability matters, and how schools and families can work together to help children navigate difficult friendships with empathy, courage, and care.

Read More

Academic Progress Report 

At Kent School, academic excellence and joyful childhood are not competing priorities. Through hands-on instruction, outdoor play, reduced screen time, and a thoughtful balance of rigor and creativity, students are developing the confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills they need to thrive.

Read More

Kent School students listening to a lesson by a teacher

There Is More Here

Families searching for a private school in Chestertown, Maryland are often looking for more than academics alone. At Kent School, students are known, challenged, encouraged, and given room to experience the joy of childhood while building confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills.

Read More

Kent School students writing during classroom time

Digital Literacy Platforms and Screen Time in Schools: The Kent School Approach

As conversations grow around digital literacy platforms like iReady, many parents are asking how technology should fit into the classroom. At Kent School, our approach is simple: technology supports learning, but it never replaces teacher-led instruction, deep reading, or meaningful conversation.

Read More

About Kent School

Kent School is an independent Preschool through Grade 8 school located in Chestertown, Maryland. Rooted in joy, hands-on learning, and a deep respect for childhood, Kent School helps students grow with confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. Our waterfront campus on the Chester River gives children room to explore, learn, lead, and become known as individuals.

See Our Mission & Philosophy
Students in a classroom at Kent School with a teacher writing on the board

Explore Academics

From Preschool through Grade 8, Kent School’s academic program is designed to help students think critically, communicate clearly, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Explore Our Academics

Considering Kent School?

Families often discover Kent School while researching the right learning environment for their child. Our classrooms prioritize thoughtful instruction, small class sizes, and meaningful student engagement.

Request Information