Variable Tuition Program

There is no doubt that a Christian, college-preparatory education is an investment – often a significant one for many families. But it is also one that possesses the potential reward for both incredible tangible and intangible returns. Because we are committed to helping as many families as possible afford a Christian education for their children, ZCA is proud to offer our Variable Tuition Program. In essence, tuition is offered on a sliding scale based on each family’s income level.

If you would like to know more about our Variable Tuition Program please contact our Business Manager, Karen Hazard.

Applications for our Variable Tuition Program can be made by clicking HERE.

Variable Tuition Program FAQs

No. Only families who feel that Variable Tuition is needed for them to afford a high quality, Christian education should submit an application.

Yes, a new application must be submitted every year.

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

Yes. For new students, application to Zion Christian Academy and application for Variable Tuition are two separate processes. However, new families may complete both application processes simultaneously.

All new students must meet conduct and academic standards for admission. Each applicant must go through the application process and testing. Admission standards will be the same for all students, regardless of the Variable Tuition process.

No. Admission applications and Variable Tuition applications are evaluated separately, and an application for Variable Tuition has no bearing on the admission process.

A wide range of families with a variety of circumstances qualify for the program, from those who are able to pay close to full tuition to those who have a demonstrated need.  Many factors are evaluated including: income, assets, unusual expenses, family size, etc.

No. Every family is required to make a financial investment in their child’s education. Our commitment to providing Variable Tuition means that we are sharing in that investment with you.

No. Unfortunately, the school does not have the ability to offer Variable Tuition to every student who qualifies for both admission and Variable Tuition. A student may be admitted to the school but placed on a waiting list. It is recommended that families apply for Variable Tuition as early as possible.

Even with reduced tuition, families will still be responsible to pay the student application fee. In addition, the following fees/costs might be incurred:

  • Enrollment Fees – $400 for new families ($300 for returning families if paid by the end of February)
  • School Lunch – optional if the student purchases a hot lunch
  • Athletic Participation Fees – varied fees based on the sport and level
  • Bus Fee – optional if the student is using the bus service to Lawrcenceburg or Spring Hill
  • Extended Care – optional if the family makes use of our after school program
  • School supplies
  • Uniforms and spirit wear

Zion Christian Academy does not single out any particular group. Variable Tuition is based on the financial needs of the family. As such, every family is afforded the same opportunity to apply for and potentially receive Variable Tuition. ZCA utilizes a third-party company and their recommendation guides our Variable Tuition process. That process is need-blind, meaning it uses only the information provided in the application for Variable Tuition to determine a qualifying amount and the school does not see any direct financial information for any family. Students receiving Variable Tuition are eligible for athletics at ZCA.

No. Zion Christian Academy has established class size limits. Within those limits, we will continue to accept qualified, mission-appropriate students. If we get more students at a grade level than our ratio allows, we will start a waiting list and may open additional sections. However, we will not overfill classrooms to the detriment of instruction.

Information for Current Parents

No. Only families who feel that they may not be able to afford a high quality, Christian education should submit an application.

Yes, a new application must be submitted every year.

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

Yes. Re-enrolling ZCA students who submit an application by the published deadline will receive priority consideration. The deadline for re-enrolling families to apply to receive priority consideration is March 15, 2020.  After that date, applications are reviewed on a first-come/first-served basis until all financial aid is exhausted.  It is recommended that families apply for Variable Tuition as early as possible.

Yes, the processes are separate, but can be done simultaneously. Qualification for Variable Tuition can be confirmed immediately. However, the qualifying amount will be awarded upon completion of the re-enrollment application.

A wide range of families with a variety of circumstances qualify for the program. Many factors are evaluated, including: income, assets, unusual expenses, family size, etc. Our goal is to make a high quality, Christian education affordable to as many mission-appropriate families as possible.

No. Every family is required to make a financial investment in their child’s education. Our commitment to providing Variable Tuition means that we are sharing in that investment with you.

No. ZCA has established preferred maximum class sizes. Within those limits, we will continue to accept qualified, mission-appropriate students. If we get more students at a grade level than our preferred ratio allows, we will start a waiting list and may open an additional section. We are committed to not overfill classrooms to the detriment of instruction.

If a family qualifies for one of our discount programs (multi-child, early payment, etc.) and Variable Tuition then they will be awarded no more than their highest qualifying amount. Multiple discounts may be combined to reach the highest qualifying amount.