Who should apply for financial aid? Will our family qualify?
When in doubt, apply! Every aid-based tuition assistance award is determined upon careful evaluation of each family's financial situation. Factors that can impact an award include: income, total number of children/dependents, tuition paid at other schools, and additional expenses and circumstances unique to that family.
How do I apply for DSHA financial aid?
Families interested in need-based financial aid must complete a financial aid application through Blackbaud Financial Aid Management — DSHA's financial aid management software provider.
Application instructions
When do I apply for financial aid at DSHA?
Incoming freshman families must apply for financial aid during the admissions application period in the fall. The online application is available August 20-November 7, 2025. Applications must be complete by the November 7 deadline to be eligible for need-based financial assistance. Awards will be sent with admissions decisions in December 2025.
Families who are interested in the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP) should also complete a financial aid application in November. DSHA participates in the February open application period for MPCP.
Families of rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors must reapply for aid between February 2-March 13, 2026.* Applications must be completed by the March 13 deadline to be eligible for need-based financial assistance. Financial aid awards will be sent out in late April 2026.
*2025 tax information is required to receive need-based financial assistance for the 2026-27 school year.
Are financial aid awards renewable?
Yes! The financial aid award given at the time of acceptance will be renewed each year, given the family's financial circumstances remain the same. Families who are interested in receiving financial aid must reapply each year.
Is financial aid available for expenses outside DSHA tuition?
Yes! DSHA has resources available to help families who qualify with the costs associated with the following:
- ACT fee
- AP exam fee
- Books
- College application fees
- College bus trips
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- Bus tickets
- Dance tickets
- Select co-curricular activities
- Dresses for formal dances and graduation
- Overnight trips, including Campus Ministry retreats and World Language trips
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