Tuition Assistance Scholarship Policy
Risalah School of Excellence | 2025–2026 Academic Year
At Risalah School of Excellence, we are committed to making high-quality Islamic education accessible to families with demonstrated financial need. Our Tuition Assistance Scholarship program reflects our belief that financial limitations should not be a barrier to pursuing excellence in faith, character, and academics.
These scholarships are limited in number and are awarded to families who align with our school’s mission, uphold Islamic values, and actively support their child’s educational growth. The Tuition Assistance Agreement can be found here.
Purpose
The Tuition Assistance Scholarship is designed to support families who:
- Demonstrate verified financial need
- Uphold the Islamic values and mission of Risalah School
- Actively partner with the school in promoting academic and behavioral excellence
- Show commitment to consistent attendance, strong conduct, and full participation in school life
Scholarships are offered as a partnership, not a subsidy. Families are expected to maintain high standards and uphold their responsibilities throughout the year. Please note, the school reserves the right to amend or update the policy as needed. Tuition assistance is not a guarantee but is subject to availability and need.
Non-Discrimination Statement
Risalah School of Excellence does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, or disability in the administration of its tuition assistance program, educational policies, admissions, or any school-administered programs. All applications are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect and are reviewed by Financial Aid Committee.
Application Process
Submission Requirements
Families must complete a Financial Aid Application and submit required supporting documents, including:
- Most recent IRS tax return (1040 form)
- Proof of income (recent pay stubs or income verification/W-2 form) Please disclose any cash income and all income sources for both parents if applicable.
- Documentation of any public assistance (SNAP, etc)
Timeline
Applications must be submitted by the deadline listed on our website. Financial aid is typically awarded before the start of the school year. Mid-year applications are considered only in cases of significant and documented financial hardship and availability of funds.
Confidentiality
All application materials are handled confidentially and reviewed only by the Financial Aid Committee. Financial data will only be used for tuition and scholarship purposes only, and will not be used for other school-related decisions. Personal and financial information will be kept confidential and will be in compliance with FERPA.
Criteria for Awarding Scholarships
Tuition assistance is awarded based on:
- Demonstrated financial need based on verified documentation listed above
- The student’s academic performance, behavior, and attendance
- The family’s alignment with school values and willingness to support school policies
- Availability of scholarship funds
Expectations of Scholarship Recipients
Students and families who receive tuition assistance must meet expectations in the following areas:
1. Attendance & Participation
- Maintain consistent, on-time attendance
- No more than 2 unexcused absences and 3 unexcused tardies (morning or between classes) per month
- Participate actively in all required academic and Islamic classes
- Follow school policies for attendance as outlined in the Parent and Student Handbook
2. Academic Performance
- Maintain a minimum average of 75% (C) or higher in all core subjects
- Submit at least 90% of assignments and assessments each month
- Use instructional time productively and participate actively in class.
- Complete quizzes, tests, and projects by the assigned deadlines.
- Seek academic help when needed and follow teacher recommendations
- Uphold academic integrity (plagiarism, cheating, and misuse of AI tools is not allowed)
3. Behavior and Conduct
- Show respect to all staff, peers, and school property
- Demonstrate manners consistent with the RISE values while on school campus
- Refrain from all forms of bullying, dishonesty, or misconduct
- Follow school rules, including technology guidelines as outlined in the Parent and Student Handbook
- Notify the school of any significant changes in family financial circumstances during the year (e.g. job loss, change in household income)
Expectations & Review
The Financial Aid Review Committee conducts a full review at the end of each quarter. Considerations include:
- Number and types of tickets received
- Efforts made by the student to improve
- Communication and partnership from the family
Scholarship may be revoked if:
- The student receives three (3) or more tickets in a single quarter
- The student consistently fails to meet academic, behavioral, or attendance expectations
- The family provides false or misleading financial information
- The family fails to pay their tuition balance on time
- Severe misconduct (e.g., bullying or threats) may lead to immediate scholarship review or termination without waiting for quarterly review.
- If a scholarship is revoked, the family is responsible for full tuition from the date of the scholarship withdrawal onward if they choose to continue enrollment. Previously awarded aid will not be retroactively charged.
Renewal Process
Tuition assistance is not automatically renewed. Families must reapply annually. Renewal of the scholarship for the following academic year will be contingent upon:
- Availability of scholarship funds
- The family’s updated financial situation
- The student meeting expectations in academic performance, behavior, and attendance throughout the current school year