Yes, You Can Afford a Private Christian School in North Carolina — Here’s How
Choosing a private school is an investment in your child’s future—academically, spiritually, and personally. Many families assume that a private Christian education is out of reach, but in North Carolina, there are more options than ever to make it affordable. Whether you think you might qualify for state assistance, want predictable budgeting, or simply need help exploring what’s possible, you may be surprised by how manageable a private school education can be.
At Christ Classical Academy, we believe that every child should have access to a learning environment where they are known, loved, and nurtured in Christ. Here are practical ways North Carolina families can make private school tuition affordable.
1. Apply for the North Carolina Opportunity Scholarship
North Carolina offers one of the most generous school-choice programs in the country. The Opportunity Scholarship Program provides families with financial assistance to use toward tuition and fees at eligible private schools.
How it works:
Families may qualify for $3,000 to over $7,000 per student, per year, depending on household income.
Funds are paid directly to the school, which reduces the amount families owe.
Many middle-income families are now eligible—not just low-income households.
The application window typically opens January–March for the following school year.
This scholarship has made private Christian education possible for thousands of North Carolina families and is one of the most important tools for affordability.
2. Ask About Financial Aid and Tuition Assistance
Many private schools offer need-based financial assistance to help bridge the gap between the full cost of tuition and what a family can reasonably afford. This aid is confidential and awarded after a third-party assessment through FACTS or a similar platform.
What financial aid can help with:
Tuition
Fees
Multi-student discounts
Unexpected financial hardship
Even if you think you may not qualify, it is always worth applying.
3. Explore Payment Plans for Predictable Monthly Costs
Most schools—including CCAC—offer monthly or quarterly tuition payment plans that allow families to spread the cost across the year. This makes budgeting easier and reduces the stress of paying one large lump sum.
Benefits of payment plans:
Smaller monthly payments
Consistent, predictable budgeting
Flexibility for families with seasonal or variable income
For many families, this is one of the simplest ways to make private school tuition manageable.
4. Use Tax Credits, FSA Accounts, or Employer Benefits
Some families are able to use tax-advantaged options to help with affordability:
Dependent Care FSAs (for after-school or summer care expenses)
Employer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs
Charitable donation matching for school giving programs
Not every family qualifies for these, but they can make a meaningful difference when available.
5. Consider the Long-Term Value of Stability and Consistency
Switching schools year-to-year can be costly—academically, emotionally, and financially. Children often thrive when they grow in a stable environment where teachers know them deeply and partner with parents over time.
Investing in one consistent school community:
Builds stronger academic growth
Strengthens friendships and social development
Allows teachers to understand a child’s learning style
Creates a sense of belonging, security, and confidence
Families frequently share that this stability is one of the greatest gifts they can offer their child.
6. Talk With Us—We’re Here to Help
Every family's situation is unique, and we are committed to walking alongside you. We would love to help you understand your options, estimate potential Opportunity Scholarship awards, and explore financial plans that fit your family’s needs.
If God is calling your family to Christ Classical Academy, we will do everything we can to help you make it work.
Interested in learning more?
Contact our Admissions Office at admissions@christclassicalclt.com or schedule a tour at www.christclassicalclt.com/admissions.
We are here to support you every step of the way as you consider a Christ-centered education for your child.