Affordability & Financial Aid at SMCS

The Value of a Basilian Education

Choosing a private Catholic education is a significant decision. At St. Michael’s College School (SMCS), we understand that enrolling your son is an investment in his mind, body, and soul.

Rooted in the Basilian tradition, SMCS forms young men who are intellectually curious, spiritually grounded, and committed to service. Our students join a brotherhood that challenges them to strive for excellence in the classroom, on the field, in the arts, and in their communities. 

Parents quickly come to appreciate how thoughtfully every aspect of school life is designed to support their son’s academic, social, spiritual, and emotional growth.

We also recognize that financial circumstances should not be a barrier to a qualified student. That is why St. Michael’s College School awards more than $2.1 million in student financial assistance annually. This is a meaningful commitment to accessibility, ensuring that talented young men from diverse backgrounds can benefit from a Basilian education.

Understanding the ROI: More Than Just Tuition

For the 2026–27 academic year, base tuition at SMCS is set at $25,400 across all grades (7–12). This tuition reflects the cost of delivering a rigorous academic programme supported by exceptional faculty, modern facilities, and robust student services.

For new students, an initial, one-time Capital Improvement Fee of $5,000 is required. Because this is a single upfront investment, the overall cost of attendance drops significantly in subsequent years. Beyond base tuition and this one-time fee, families can expect recurring annual incidental costs ranging from $1,800 to $3,650, depending on the grade. These annual fees cover integral components of the SMCS experience, including technology, retreats, and outdoor education programming.

When considering affordability, it is important to look beyond the annual number and consider the full return on investment.

An SMCS education extends well beyond the classroom. Students benefit from individualized academic attention, co-curricular opportunities that cultivate leadership, and faith formation that anchors character. Graduates consistently gain admission to leading universities across Canada and internationally, prepared not only to succeed academically but to lead with integrity.

Our commitment to student achievement includes comprehensive academic guidance and dedicated Learning Support services, ensuring that students receive the tools and strategies they need to thrive.

Equally powerful is the lifelong connection to the SMCS Alumni Network. The brotherhood does not end at graduation. Alumni remain engaged mentors, leaders, and supporters, opening doors, offering guidance, and strengthening professional networks for years to come. When families consider tuition, they are investing in an enduring community that supports their sons long after they receive their diplomas.

Our Commitment to Accessibility: Financial Assistance Programmes

At SMCS, access to excellence should be guided by potential, not limited by circumstance.

How the Financial Assistance Process Works

Our financial assistance programme is designed to be both fair and confidential. Applications are managed through Apple Financial Services (FACS), an independent third-party organization. This ensures that every family’s financial information is handled with complete discretion and assessed objectively.

Eligibility for assistance is based on demonstrated financial need rather than academic merit alone. While academic achievement is important for admission, financial assistance decisions focus on a family’s ability to contribute toward tuition and fees.

Because financial circumstances can change, families receiving assistance are required to re-apply annually. This renewal process ensures that funds are directed each year to families who need them most, allowing SMCS to steward its resources responsibly and equitably.

Critical Deadlines and Requirements

Timing is essential. New families must complete their financial assistance application at the same time as their school application. Coordinating these submissions ensures that assistance decisions are communicated alongside admission decisions.

Applications for financial assistance are due by the first Monday in December. We strongly encourage families to begin preparing their documentation early to avoid last-minute stress.

Please note that the financial assistance programme is open exclusively to Canadian citizens. This residency requirement ensures that funds are allocated in alignment with programme guidelines and donor intent.

Flexibility for Families: Payment Options

Affordability is not only about the total cost—it is also about how payments are structured to support a family’s cash flow.

All payment plans require an initial payment upon admission. Beyond that, SMCS offers three payment options:

• Option A: Full payment upon admission.
• Option B: Four installments (upon admission, April, June, and August).
• Option C: Monthly installments (upon admission plus seven monthly payments from April to October).

These structured plans allow families to select the approach that best aligns with their financial planning. Our Admissions and Finance teams are available to answer questions and guide families through these options with clarity and care.

Partnering with Your Family

At St. Michael’s College School, we see education as a partnership. Parents entrust us with their sons during formative years and we take that responsibility seriously.

We know that for many families, the question is not simply “Is SMCS excellent?”—it is “Is SMCS within reach?” Our answer is this: we are committed to working with families to find a path forward for talented students.

Through substantial annual financial assistance, a transparent and confidential assessment process, and flexible payment options, SMCS strives to ensure that financial circumstances do not stand in the way of opportunity.

We invite you to explore our Tuition & Student Financial Assistance page for detailed information on deadlines and how to start your application today:

An investment in excellence is ultimately an investment in your son’s future. At SMCS, we are ready to partner with your family to build that future together.