Fees

Indicative average fee levels

Scotland's independent schools are sensitive to the pressures that parents face, particularly in the current economic climate. They have worked hard to keep fee increases as low as possible to ease the burden on parents and to widen access. Fees are set at a level to cover running costs and generate only a small surplus which is reinvested into facilities and resources for the benefit of pupils.

The fees shown, above, are indicative average fees and as such cover a wide range of fees in independent schools throughout Scotland. Average fees in 2012 rose by 2.7% (day schools) and 3.1% (boarding schools) compared with 2011.

Further information about 2012 fee levels is included in the PDF document, below.

Some schools charge an all-inclusive fee while others charge an additional fee for ‘extras'. The items listed here are often included in the tuition fees although parents are advised to check with individual schools: personal accident insurance, art materials, curricular/sport-related travel, classroom stationery, exam entry fees, laundry for boarders, lunches, one-to-one learning support, text books.

Financial assistance provided by schools to widen access

All independent schools offer financial assistance, most commonly in the form of means tested awards, granted on the basis of financial need. The level of financial support can vary considerably, from a free place (where 100% of the fees are met by the school) to awards worth around 20% of the fees. The SCIS leaflet, Meeting the Cost of School Fees, which can be downloaded here gives information, advice and guidance about planning ahead to meet the cost and applying for financial assistance.