Tuition & Financial Aid | Affording University Liggett School

Affording ULS

IN THIS SECTION

At University Liggett School, we recognize the significant investment families make to provide their children with a world-class education. Our dedication to academic excellence, innovative programming, and a supportive learning environment ensures that this investment yields lifelong value.
 

Affording USL

What’s Included in Tuition

Affording ULS

At ULS, tuition covers far more than classroom instruction. Most materials, field trips, and other enrichment opportunities are included in tuition, keeping things simple and making it easier for families to plan ahead without unexpected expenses. From Early Childhood to Upper School, your investment ensures access to the tools, experiences, and resources your child needs to thrive.

Tuition Rates for 2025-26

Affording ULS

Early Childhood - Prekindergarten

All field trips, class trips, materials, snacks, lunch for full day students, yearbooks, and support services are included in tuition. Flexible schedules and extended day care options are available to meet the needs of families.
 

USL PreK

Programs for 3 Year Olds 
  • 3 Mornings (MWF, 8:00 - 11:30 a.m.) - $10,370
  • 5 Mornings (M-F, 8:00  - 11:30 a.m.) - $15,400
  • 3 Full Days (MWF, 8:00 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.) - $14,880
  • 5 Full Days (M-F, 8:00 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.) - $22,600

Children must turn three by September 1st to be eligible. Children who will turn three by November 1st will be considered with the understanding that they will require a third year in the Early Childhood program before being eligible for Kindergarten.

Programs for 4 Year Olds
  • 5 Mornings (M-F, 8:00 - 11:30 a.m.) - $15,400
  • 5 Full Days (M-F, 8:00 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.) - $22,600

Children must turn four by September 1st to be eligible.

All field trips, class trips, materials, snacks, lunch for full day students, yearbooks, and support services are included in tuition. Flexible schedules and extended day care options are available to meet the needs of families.

Extended Day Care
  • Hourly Rate - $14/hour

Extended day care is available on school days from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. Families are billed by the quarter hour for time used. The program is run by our caring and professional extended day staff.

 

Lower School (Kindergarten - 5th Grade)

All field trips, class trips, materials, snacks, lunch, yearbooks, and support services are included in tuition. Extended day care is available until 6 p.m. for an additional charge.
 

Affording ULS 3

 Lower School Tuition
  • Kindergarten - 2nd Grade  -  $29,070
  • 3rd - 5th Grade  -  $29,790
Extended Day Care
  • Hourly Rate  -   $14/hour

Extended day care is available on school days from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. Families are billed by the quarter hour for time used. The program is run by our caring and professional extended day staff.

 

Middle School (6th - 8th Grade)

All field trips, class trips, camps, materials, snacks, lunch, yearbooks, support services, and athletic fees are included in tuition. Extended day supervision is available until 6 p.m. for no additional charge.


Affording MS

MIDDLE School Tuition
  • Middle School Tuition - $32,390

Supervised care available at no additional charge from 3:15 - 5:00 p.m. Learning enrichment available Monday - Thursday from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

 

Upper School (9th - 12th Grade)

All field trips, class trips, camps, materials, snacks, lunch, yearbooks, support services, and athletic fees are included in tuition.
 

Affording US

UPPER School Tuition
  • Upper School Tuition  -   $38,080

Liggett Merit Scholarships

 

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Empowering Excellence in Education

 

The Liggett Merit Scholarship is a distinguished four-year, half-tuition scholarship designed to recognize and support exceptional students who exemplify outstanding academic performance, intellectual rigor, and a passion for learning. This scholarship is awarded to those who not only excel in their studies but also demonstrate a profound commitment to their communities, both inside and outside the classroom.

 

Legacy of Leadership and Innovation

 

Since its inception in 2008, the Liggett Merit Scholarship has been made possible through the generous support of alumni and donors. This scholarship empowers high-achieving students to access extraordinary educational experiences, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Liggett Merit Scholars join a distinguished legacy of graduates who have successfully gained admission to some of the world’s top universities, including Princeton, Yale, MIT, and more. These scholars not only thrive academically but also continue to shape the future with their drive, talent, and innovative spirit.

 

Community Engagement

 

At University Liggett School, our scholars are recognized for their extensive involvement in various aspects of school and community life. They engage in extracurricular activities, lead initiatives, and inspire their peers to pursue excellence. Their contributions reflect the values of leadership and collaboration, making them role models within our community.

The Liggett Merit Scholarship is an opportunity to join a community of thinkers, innovators, and changemakers. For more information about the Liggett Merit Scholarship and how to apply, please visit our website or contact our admissions office at 313-884-4444.

 

The Liggett Merit Scholarship Application Deadline is January 20, 2026. Candidates must begin the application process by January 9th and attend one of the required assessment dates in order to complete the application by the deadline.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible to apply for the Liggett Merit Scholarship?
  • Every student applying for admission to the ninth grade is automatically considered for the Liggett Merit Scholarship. To be eligible for consideration, all required application materials must be submitted, the assessment, and a school day visit must be completed by January 20, 2026.

Do I need to qualify for need-based financial assistance to qualify for the Liggett Merit Scholarship?
  • No. All ninth grade applicants are eligible regardless of financial need.

What does the committee look for in a Liggett Merit Scholar?
  • The committee considers a range of factors including academic achievement (GPA, school records, standardized assessments, and teacher recommendations), as well as non-academic factors such as extra-curricular involvement and talents, community service, leadership qualities, creativity and problem-solving, and overall character.

What happens if I am selected as a finalist?
  • The admissions committee selects 10-12 finalists who are invited back for an interview with a selection committee. Selection committee interviews will be held in the evening on Tuesday, January 27th and Wednesday, January 28th. The selection committee makes final recommendations for awards. All finalists are guaranteed an offer of admission and first priority consideration for additional scholarships and need-based financial aid (if qualified).

When will I be notified?
  • Liggett Merit Scholarship finalists will be notified by January 24th. Selection Committee interviews will be scheduled the following week. Final award decisions will be sent on February 10th.

Who do I contact with questions?
  • For questions regarding Upper School admissions and the Liggett Merit Scholarship, please contact Sydney Davis at 313-884-4444, ext. 407 or by emailing sdavis@uls.org.

2025 - 2026 Additional Costs & Payment Options

Affording ULS

Our goal is to provide clarity and flexibility, ensuring that the financial process is as seamless as possible for our families.

Enrollment Deposit
A non-refundable tuition deposit is required to complete enrollment or re-enrollment. The deposit amount varies based on enrollment type and is specified in your contract. This deposit is applied toward the total tuition balance.
Comprehensive Student Fee

This annual fee is added to tuition and covers division-specific expenses, including school books, required activities, supplies, technology fees, a Parent Association contribution, and PE uniforms (5th-8th grades):

  • Early Childhood: $150
  • Lower School: $200
  • Middle School: $350
  • Upper School: $400
Other Potential Expenses

While most costs are included in tuition, families may incur additional expenses for:

  • Upper School personal athletic equipment
  • Optional school transportation
  • Lower School instrument rentals
  • After-school enrichment programs
  • Supervised after-care (Early Childhood and Lower School)
  • Summer programs
  • Optional cultural travel opportunities
  • Tuition refund insurance (required for monthly payment plans)
Flexible Tuition Payment Plans

All payment plans are managed through FACTS Student Billing. We offer several payment options to fit your family’s needs:

  • One Payment: Due in July (or upon enrollment)
  • Two Payments: Due in July and December
  • Four Payments: Due in May, July, September, and December
  • Monthly Plan: Up to 10 installments (May - February)


Closeup photograph of books in the ULS library.
 

Need-Based Financial Assistance

Through our need-based Financial Assistance Program, ULS strives to meet families where they are, bridging the gap between what they can afford and the cost of an independent school education. These efforts create a diverse and inclusive community where students from all backgrounds learn and grow together.

While the annual cost of educating a student exceeds tuition, the support of our alumni, donors, and friends helps to offset expenses, ensuring that more families can access this extraordinary opportunity. Financial assistance decisions are based on demonstrated need, and families are encouraged to apply early to take advantage of these resources.

University Liggett School works with each family to make an extraordinary education possible, preparing students for lives of purpose, leadership, and success.
 

View of Upper School classroom at ULS during a lesson.


Clarity

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