Understanding Concordia Academy Tuition and Affordability

Choosing the right high school is a significant decision for parents. Concordia Academy, with its long-standing history since 1893, provides a Christian high school education aimed at nurturing students in a safe and thriving learning environment. Understanding the costs associated with private education is crucial, and Concordia Academy offers various avenues to make quality education accessible.

Tuition Overview

For the 2026-2027 school year, tuition for grades 9-12 at Concordia Academy is $15,140 per year. This base tuition does not include the registration fee, which is due upon application, or athletic fees, which are assessed on a per-sport basis. It's important to note that Association Congregation students receive a $700 credit toward tuition.

What Does Tuition Cover?

Tuition at Concordia Academy covers a wide range of essentials that contribute to a well-rounded high school experience. This includes:

PE uniform
Freshman and senior retreats
Standardized testing
The annual yearbook
Entry to all on-campus athletic events, concerts, and drama productions
Access to technology
College courses for juniors and seniors

Additional Fees

Besides the base tuition, families should be aware of additional costs:

Registration Fee: A non-refundable fee due when applying.
Athletic Fees: $200 per sport, capped at $400 per athlete per year. These fees cover operating costs and may vary for co-op sports.
Technology Fee: $275 for grades 9-12, covering updates and maintenance to the technology program.
Activity Fee: $200 for grades 9-12, covering student council events, field trips, and the yearbook.
International Student Fees: Additional fees apply for international students, including application, enrollment, technology, and activity fees.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Concordia Academy is committed to making its education accessible through various financial aid opportunities. Over half of the families at Concordia Academy receive some form of tuition assistance. The academy offers grants, scholarships, and parent fundraising programs to help families manage tuition costs.

Need-Based Financial Aid

Families can apply for need-based financial aid through Concordia Academy's partnership with School and Student Services (SSS). SSS uses standardized criteria to evaluate financial aid applications and allocate funds based on a family's financial status.

Scholarships

Concordia Academy offers a variety of scholarships based on academics, leadership, and other criteria. These include:

Leadership in Action Scholarship
Beacon Merit Scholarship
Ken Selle Memorial Scholarship

Applications for scholarships usually require essays, transcripts, and recommendations.

Parent Fundraising Programs

Concordia Academy offers parent fundraising programs to help reduce tuition costs. These programs allow parents to earn funds that can be directed toward tuition payments. For example, parents can work at concession stands at various venues and direct a percentage of the sales (tax-free) to the school.

Association Congregation Credit

Association Congregation families receive a $700 tuition credit, further reducing the cost of education.

Read also: Financial Aid at Concordia

Tuition Payment Plans

Concordia Academy offers flexible tuition payment options designed to fit various family budgets. These include:

One-Time Payment: A 2% discount is offered for paying tuition in full by July 15. The discount does not apply if paying by credit card or for international tuition.
Semi-Annual Payment: Tuition is split into two payments, due in August and January.
12 Monthly Payments: Tuition payments are spread evenly from June through May via automatic withdrawal.
10 Monthly Payments: Tuition payments are spread evenly from August through May via automatic withdrawal.

Tuition payments are typically managed through TADS, Concordia Academy's tuition and billing system. Families usually re-enroll and set up payment plans in February for the upcoming school year. Online payments can be made securely, including one-time payments with a small processing fee.

Additional Ways to Reduce Costs

Multi-Family Discounts

Concordia Academy provides discounts for families with multiple children enrolled. The first child pays in full, while subsequent children receive discounts on both enrollment fees and tuition.

Referral Credit

Families can earn a $500 referral credit for referring a new student who enrolls at Concordia Academy.

Work Study

Concordia Academy grants a limited number of summer work study opportunities each year, with financial need taken into account.

Thrivent Choice Dollars and Community Impact Cards

Thrivent members can help Concordia Academy through Thrivent Choice Dollars and Thrivent Community Impact Cards, providing an immediate impact.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

Families interested in applying for financial aid can do so through Concordia Academy's partnership with School and Student Services (SSS). The application process involves providing detailed financial information, which SSS uses to determine the extent of financial assistance needed.

Contacting the Admissions Team

For personalized support or questions about tuition aid, families are encouraged to contact the admissions team directly. The admissions team can provide guidance on navigating the financial aid process and exploring available options.

The Value of a Concordia Academy Education

The value of a Concordia Academy education extends beyond the classroom. It includes a safe and nurturing learning environment, a Christ-centered community, and opportunities for students to discover their God-given potential. The academy's commitment to affordability ensures that as many families as possible can access this valuable educational experience.

Dual Enrollment Opportunities

One of the unique benefits of Concordia Academy is the opportunity for dual enrollment in both high school and PSEO at Concordia University St. Paul. This allows students to earn college credits while still in high school, potentially saving on future college expenses.

Community and Support

Concordia Academy fosters a vibrant community that embraces and supports students. The academy provides updates on each grade level and an online hub for information and support.

Faith and Service

Concordia Academy integrates faith and service into its educational program. Students have daily opportunities for spiritual growth and participate in the Vision4Life service-learning experience.

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