Brightworks Tuition Assistance FAQ’s

We are excited to introduce Clarity, our new tool for tuition assistance applications at Brightworks. Based on feedback from our families, this platform is faster, easier to use, and designed to streamline the entire process.

Below you’ll find answers to some common questions about applying for tuition assistance at Brightworks.

1. What is Clarity?

Clarity is the new platform we are using for tuition assistance applications at Brightworks. It is designed to be user-friendly, making the application process smoother and faster for families. Clarity helps ensure that tuition assistance is distributed equitably based on demonstrated need.

Each year, Clarity hosts several Application Info Webinars for families. All families who may be applying to any Clarity school are welcome to attend any of these webinars. During the live session, we will go over some key aspects of the application, things to look out for, materials to gather, how to get help, how the tax verification process works, and a robust Q&A. In fact, we have had over 400 families attend a single webinar and we've stayed on to answer over 200 questions in some cases. Typically these will run for about 60 minutes but we will remain live longer if there are lots of questions from parents. If you sign up, but are unable to attend the webinar, Clarity will make the recording available to you after the webinar.

Registration links for each date:

Oct 28 -  6:30pm Eastern Time
Oct 29 - 7pm Pacific Time
Dec 10 - 5:30pm Pacific Time

FAQ’s from Clarity

2. Who is eligible for tuition assistance?

Tuition assistance is available to all current and prospective Brightworks families who demonstrate financial need. We aim to make a Brightworks education accessible to as many families as possible, and assistance is awarded based on the information provided through Clarity.

3. How do I apply for tuition assistance using Clarity?

Applying through Clarity is simple! Here are the steps:

  1. Log in to your Clarity account (you’ll receive a link and instructions via email).

  2. Complete your family profile, which includes your household income, expenses, and other financial details.

  3. Submit your application before the deadline (November 1 for current families and January 21 for new families).

Once submitted, Clarity will process your information, and our TA committee will review your application.

4. What documents will I need to complete the application?

To ensure a smooth application process, Clarity pulls your documents directly from the IRS so that you do not need to submit them. You will need to:

  • Provide estimates of your household income for 2024 (wages, interest/returns, etc). Documentation not required. 

  • Estimates of your monthly household expenses (food, housing, bills, etc). Documentation not required. 

  • Any other financial documents that might be relevant to demonstrating your family’s situation. 

Clarity will guide you through the document upload process and let you know if additional information is needed.  See the step by step guide from Clarity

5. How is tuition assistance determined?

Tuition assistance is awarded based on demonstrated financial need. Clarity evaluates your family's financial situation based on income, expenses, family size, and other factors to provide a fair assessment. Our goal is to distribute our tuition assistance budget equitably based on family need. 

6. When is the deadline to apply?

We ask current BWX families to submit their tuition assistance applications through Clarity by November 1, 2024. This is necessary for us to get you information on the assistance available next year before you sign your enrollment agreement. 

Families applying to join the Brightworks community for the first time must submit their Tuition Assistance Application before 1/21/25.

7. Can I apply after the deadline?

While we encourage families to submit applications by the deadline to ensure timely review, we understand that circumstances may arise. If you need additional time, please contact our team as soon as possible to discuss your situation.

8. What if I experience technical difficulties while using Clarity?

If you encounter any issues with Clarity during the application process, our support team is here to help. You can reach out to us via:

Additionally, we will offer virtual office hours and support sessions for families who would like one-on-one support.

9. How will I know if I’ve received tuition assistance?

We aim to notify returning families by the end of 2024, and new families will be notified 3/20/2025 with their admissions decision.

10. Will my financial information remain confidential?

Yes, all financial information you provide through Clarity is treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Only authorized Brightworks staff involved in the tuition assistance process will have access to your information.

11. Can I re-apply for tuition assistance each year?

Yes, families are required to re-apply for tuition assistance each school year as financial circumstances may change. Clarity will make reapplying simple by saving your previous application details, making updates easier for subsequent years.

12. Who can I contact if I have more questions?

If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re here to help guide you through the process.

  • Email: tuition@brightworks.org

  • Office Hours: We’ll be holding virtual office hours for families needing extra assistance on an as needed basis—stay tuned for more details.

We are excited to make this process easier and more accessible for our families. Thank you for partnering with us to ensure equitable access to a Brightworks education!