Private School Tuition Assistance

Beyond MOScholars, Missouri families have access to additional resources and should be aware of related programs.

Average Private School Tuition in Missouri

• $10,673 average K-12 tuition statewide
• MOScholars base scholarships ($6,375-$11,156) cover most tuition at many schools
• Families may need to contribute additional funds for higher-tuition institutions
• Many schools offer school-based financial aid to supplement MOScholars

School-Based Financial Aid

Many Missouri private schools offer their own financial assistance programs:

• Need-based financial aid – Based on family income and demonstrated financial need
• Merit-based scholarships – Based on academic achievement, athletics, arts, or other talents
• Sibling discounts – Reduced tuition for families with multiple children enrolled
• Payment plans – Flexible payment options to spread tuition costs

Contact schools directly about combining MOScholars with school-based financial aid

Federal Tax-Advantaged Savings

Families can use federal tax-advantaged savings accounts for K-12 education expenses:

529 College Savings Plans

• Can withdraw up to $10,000/year for K-12 private school tuition (2025)
• Increasing to $20,000/year in 2026
• Missouri offers MOST 529 plan with state tax deduction for contributions
• Earnings grow tax-free federally

Coverdell Education Savings Accounts

• Contribute up to $2,000/year per child
• Can be used for broader range of K-12 expenses: tuition, books, curriculum, tutoring
• Income limits apply for contributions

Combining Resources

• Families can combine MOScholars with school-based financial aid
• 529 plans can supplement MOScholars for higher-tuition schools
• Cannot use MOScholars AND be enrolled in home district public schools simultaneously