Need-based grants are one of the most popular types awarded. Several Catholic organizations provide financial assistance to students and families who would otherwise not be able to afford the tuition of Catholic schools. The average amount ranges from $1,000 up to $2,200 per grade school student. Many of these are awarded regionally through the area diocese, such as the Archdiocese of Washington Tuition Assistance Program, which gives scholarships to low-income students.
Students who fall under the category of “at-risk” youths can also qualify for special financial assistance. Some examples would be inner-city children or those who are likely to drop out of school. The idea is that having the financial help encourages them and enables the family to keep them in school. The Catholic Education Foundation's Save Our Students (SOS) program provides $1,500 for at-risk elementary school students to pursue a Catholic education.
A student can always apply for national scholarships that can be applied toward a private education of the family’s choosing. It doesn’t always have to be a Catholic-funded organization. For example, the Children’s Scholarship Fund gives assistance to low-income families and does not restrict the type of school.
Another possibility is for the student to try for a competitive scholarship. He may have to write an essay or statement of purpose to apply.