Affording VCS
Flexible tuition options that make Vermont Commons School accessible to every student
Education without financial barriers
We break down economic walls that limit student potential. Our approach ensures talented students can access world-class education regardless of financial background.
16.5%
Of operating budget dedicated to flexible tuition
$8,892
Average tuition rate for families accessing Flexible Tuition
30%
Of our students access flexible tuition support
Accessible education
Flexible Tuition helps ensure that the Vermont Commons student body is broadly representative of the community at-large and that our education is accessible to every admitted student.
Investing in your academic journey
The Comprehensive Fee is for the entire academic year and covers all normal parts of the school program; it includes the textbook and activity fees, athletic fees, lab fees, programs, clubs, field trips and Encounter Week programs. (Programs involving national or international travel, extra tutoring, or individually designed activities such as music lessons are not included in the Comprehensive Fee.) Each year, tuition is set at a level that enables every student to enjoy the exceptional experience that is Vermont Commons School. Tuition allows us to retain high-quality educators, provide a modern campus with up-to-date facilities, and maintain small class sizes.
Middle School
$30,400 covers a transformative academic year for grades 6-8
High School
$34,500 supports advanced learning and comprehensive programs for grades 9-12
Flexible tuition application
Our application ensures fair and confidential evaluation of each family's financial circumstances. We believe every student deserves an opportunity to access exceptional education.
Confidential review
All information is kept strictly confidential and is limited to the Flexible Tuition Committee. Tuition rates will be between 20% and 100% of the Comprehensive Fee. Please note that the school makes its admissions and tuition decisions independently of one another.
New VCS Families
Families new to Vermont Commons applying for admission and Flexible Tuition after these deadlines will receive full consideration on a rolling basis. Vermont Commons does not review requests for Flexible Tuition unless a student has been accepted to the school.
Returning families
Returning families who intend to apply for Flexible Tuition for the 2026-2027 academic year must submit a complete application with all supporting documents (including 2024 and 2025 tax returns) by February 25. Late submissions may result in limited ability to offer Flexible Tuition.
Questions?
Please contact our Business Manager, Linda Bursell at lbursell@vermontcommons.org with questions.
Payment plans designed for families
We offer generous interest-free payment plans that help families spread out the cost of a VCS education within each academic year, as needed. Within 7 days of acceptance to the school, Vermont Commons requires the first tuition payment from newly admitted families to secure a space for the student. This payment is $1500, and $350 for those applying for Flexible Tuition. Payments typically begin in the summer leading up to the school year.
Annual payments
1 payment per year
Semi-annual payments
2 payments per academic year
Monthly payments
10 convenient monthly installments
Take the Next Step
Connect with our Director of Admissions to inquire about VCS affordability