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Tuition & Affordability

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An Investment in Your Child's Future, and in a Thriving Community

We believe that an excellent education should be within reach for families from many walks of life. Kirby’s Tiered Tuition program reflects our commitment to socio-economic diversity and access. It ensures that classrooms are filled with students who bring a wide range of experiences, perspectives, and passions—the kind of diversity that makes learning stronger for everyone.

At Kirby, families pay tuition at a level aligned with their financial circumstances. Our goal is not only to make Kirby accessible, but to build a community where equity is intentional and belonging is part of daily life.

2026-2027 Tiered Tuition

Tiered Tuition Chart

*Important Note

The income ranges shown for each Tier are examples only and do not guarantee placement. Each family’s tuition is determined through a careful review of financial circumstances, including household size, assets, allowable expenses, and other relevant factors. Families with incomes outside these ranges may still qualify for any tier. While a family’s tier generally remains consistent from year to year, significant changes in circumstances may result in adjustments. For this reason, Tiered Tuition applications must be completed annually.

How Tiered Tuition Works

Tiered Tuition is one of the ways Kirby makes our values real: equity, diversity, and access for families across Santa Cruz County and beyond.

  • Tuition is set according to a family’s demonstrated ability to contribute.
  • Families wishing to be considered for Tiers 1-4 must submit an application through Clarity, a secure and confidential third-party platform.
  • Kirby dedicates significant resources so that finances are not the sole barrier to admission.

Applying for Tiered Tuition

The tuition application is separate from admissions and has no bearing on a student’s acceptance.
Steps to Apply
  1. Complete the Clarity Application by December 18, 2026 if applying for the Tiered Tuition program. 
  2. Receive your personalized tuition rate.

FAQs

At a Glance

50% of Kirby families participate on Tiers 1-4.
The average tuition for these families is $26,000

2026-2027 Tier 5 Annual Tuition

6th and 7th Grade Tuition is $45,000.

8th through 12th Grade Tuition is $52,000.

International Student Tuition is $57,400

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