What financial aid is available for private school in Montana?

Montana has 2 financial aid programs for private school: Innovative Educational Program: ESA — $2,500/student/year for families below 300% FPL. Tax Credit Scholarship: Small tax credit ($150/individual) funds SSO scholarships. About 28% of private school families in Montana receive some form of tuition reduction.

How much does private school cost in Montana?

Average private school tuition in Montana is $7,600/year. With financial aid, the average family pays significantly less. 28% of families receive some form of aid.

State Voucher / ESA Available

Private School Financial Aid in Montana

2026 programs, income limits, and how to apply

Montana has a state-funded voucher or ESA program, plus 1 other aid source. Average tuition is $7,600/year and 28% of families receive some form of tuition reduction.

Avg Tuition

$7,600

per year

Aid Programs

available

Families Aided

28%

receive some aid

Avg Aid Award

$2,800

need-based

Check Your Eligibility

Enter your household income to see which Montana programs you might qualify for.

Annual household income ($)

School-age children

Gross income before taxes. Income limits shown for a family of 4; actual limits scale with household size.

Montana Financial Aid Programs

All available programs for private school families in 2026

Innovative Educational Program

ESA — $2,500/student/year for families below 300% FPL

Income limit: $78,390/year (family of 4)

$2,500

/year max

Tax Credit Scholarship

Small tax credit ($150/individual) funds SSO scholarships

$150

/year max

The Full Picture in Montana

Montana's aid options are modest compared to other voucher states. The ESA pays $2,500/year (the lowest of any active program) and requires income below 300% FPL. The tax credit scholarship is tiny ($150 credit). School-based aid fills some gaps but Montana's private schools have small endowments. Religious schools with church funding offer the best value. Average tuition is $7,600, so even with the ESA you'll owe $5,000+.

Want voucher-specific details? See our Montana school voucher eligibility page for income thresholds by household size, application links, and enrollment deadlines.

How to Apply for Aid in Montana

Apply for state programs first

Start with the state voucher/ESA. It's the biggest single award. Then apply for tax credit scholarships if available.

Apply for school-based aid at every school

Most schools use TADS, FACTS, or SSS for financial aid assessment. Apply by January-February for the following school year. School aid stacks with state programs.

Check private scholarship organizations

Local nonprofits, community foundations, and religious organizations often provide additional scholarships. Search "[your city] private school scholarships" for local options.