Understanding Scranton Preparatory School Tuition Costs: A Comprehensive Guide
Scranton Preparatory School, a private Catholic school rooted in Jesuit tradition, provides a college preparatory education for students in grades 9-12. Located in Scranton, PA, the school is known for its rigorous academics, commitment to service, and strong college placement rate. This article delves into the details of Scranton Prep's tuition costs, financial aid opportunities, and the overall value proposition of a Scranton Prep education.
Scranton Prep: An Overview
Scranton Preparatory School is located at 1000 Wyoming Ave in Scranton, PA. Founded in 1944 by the Jesuits at the request of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Scranton and local Catholic families, the school has a rich history of academic excellence and character formation. The Jesuits, who had recently taken ownership of the University of Scranton, initiated the preparations for opening a college preparatory school in the Scranton area. W. Coleman Nevils, the university's president, spearheaded the renovation of the "Annex," a building at the corner of Mulberry Street and Wyoming Avenue, to house the high school. The Annex, previously the Dr. Charles E. Thomson Scranton Private Hospital, was acquired by William Hafey in 1941.
Scranton Prep's mission is to form a learning community of men and women distinguished by its commitment to competence, conscience, and compassion. The school serves students from every county in Northeast Pennsylvania, including portions of New York state, providing convenient transportation for students in outlying areas. The current enrollment is over 800 students.
Tuition Costs: A Detailed Breakdown
Understanding the cost of tuition is a crucial step for families considering Scranton Prep. For the 2025-2026 school year, the tuition is $17,600. It's worth noting that tuition costs are subject to change, so it's always best to consult the school's official website or admissions office for the most up-to-date information.In the past, tuition costs were lower. For example, one source indicates a yearly tuition of $11,700. Another source indicates an annual tuition of $16,900.
Deposits
Upon acceptance, freshmen are required to make a $500 deposit, which is then deducted from their overall tuition. Upperclassmen also pay a $500 deposit in May, which is similarly credited towards their tuition. Returning families can make their deposit through their Blackbaud account.
Read also: Academic Resources at Scranton
Financial Aid: Making Scranton Prep Accessible
Scranton Prep is committed to making its education accessible to talented students regardless of their financial background. Last year, the school distributed over $3 million in financial aid to over 60% of its student body. This demonstrates a significant investment in supporting families who need assistance with tuition costs.
Application Process and Deadlines
Incoming freshmen and their families who wish to be considered for financial aid must apply online by December 1, 2025. The school states that approximately 80% of financial aid will be distributed to those who adhere to the deadline, highlighting the importance of timely submission.
In cases where parents are divorced or separated, both parents are required to complete the financial aid applications for the student to be considered.
Average Financial Aid Grant
While the specific amount of financial aid awarded varies based on individual family circumstances, one source indicates that the average financial aid grant is $3,500. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of tuition for eligible families.
Comparing Scranton Prep to Other Schools
When considering private school options, it's helpful to compare tuition costs and other factors with similar schools in the area. Holy Cross High School is often compared to Scranton Preparatory School. While specific tuition data may vary, understanding the differences in academic programs, class sizes, and other resources can help families make informed decisions.
Read also: Affording Penn State Scranton
Quick Comparison: Scranton Prep vs. Holy Cross High School
| Feature | Scranton Preparatory School | Holy Cross High School |
|---|---|---|
| Total Classroom Teachers | 50 | 29 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 13:1 | 12:1 |
| Classroom Dress Code | Formal | N/A |
| Tuition Cost | $11,700 | $8,750 |
| Average Financial Aid Grant | $3,500 | N/A |
| Admission Deadline | Jan. 17 | None / Rolling |
Note: This data may not be fully up-to-date. Check with the schools directly for the most current information.
The Value of a Scranton Prep Education
While the tuition cost is a significant factor, it's essential to consider the value of a Scranton Prep education. The school offers a range of benefits that contribute to students' academic, personal, and spiritual growth.
Academic Excellence
Scranton Prep is known for its rigorous academic program, with an average GPA of 3.63. The school offers 14 AP courses, providing students with the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school. These advanced courses include AP Art History, AP Biology, AP Calculus, AP Chemistry, AP Computer Science, AP English Composition, AP English Literature, AP Human Geography, AP Latin Poetry, AP Music Theory, AP Physics, and AP Psychology.
The school boasts a 100% graduation rate, and 99% of students go on to a four-year college. The average standardized test scores are impressive, with an SAT score of 1250 and an ACT score of 29. This strong academic foundation prepares students for success in college and beyond.
Faculty and Staff
Scranton Prep employs 50 classroom teachers. The faculty is dedicated and experienced, with many holding advanced degrees. The student-teacher ratio is 13:1, allowing for personalized attention and support.
Read also: Undergraduate Student Profile at Scranton
Extracurricular Activities
Scranton Prep offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, with 23 options available. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop their talents, and build leadership skills.
The school also offers 14 interscholastic sports, including Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cheering, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, and Wrestling.
College Preparation
Scranton Prep's primary goal is to prepare students for college. The school provides comprehensive college counseling services to help students navigate the application process and find the right college fit. The school's strong academic reputation and high college placement rate demonstrate its success in achieving this goal.
Jesuit Values
As a Jesuit school, Scranton Prep emphasizes the values of competence, conscience, and compassion. The school encourages students to use their talents and knowledge to serve others and make a positive impact on the world. The school has a full-time director of community service.
Considerations for Prospective Families
Location and Transportation
Scranton Prep serves students from a wide geographic area, including Northeast Pennsylvania and portions of New York state. The school provides convenient transportation for students in outlying areas. It is near Scranton and Marywood University.
Diversity
While some reviewers have commented on a lack of diversity among the staff, Scranton Prep strives to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students.
School Culture
Many students and alumni describe Scranton Prep as a supportive and close-knit community. The staff is often described as being like family.
Real Estate Considerations Near Scranton Prep
For families considering a move to be closer to Scranton Prep, there are various real estate options available in the surrounding area. The average home value in the area is $138,682.
Some examples of real estate opportunities include:
- Charming 2-bed/2-bath homes in peaceful neighborhoods
- Spacious 4-bedroom Colonial homes designed for family living
- Duplexes with two spacious units, each featuring 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath, living room, dining room, and an eat-in kitchen
- Renovated 4-bedroom, 1 1/2-bath homes with modern comfort
Additionally, 1100 Penn offers 76 brand-new, luxury studio, one- and two-bedroom units inside a historical warehouse overlooking the Scranton Preparatory School fields.
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