What is the amount of the Knight Family Scholars award?

Do I need to apply for financial assistance? 

Families interested in receiving need-based financial assistance above and beyond the Knight Family Scholarship amount should apply by the February 7, 2014, deadline.  It is important that you submit your financial assistance application by this deadline or we cannot consider you for need-based aid in addition to the scholarship. Families will receive their total scholarship and need-based decision along with their offer of admission. Although the amount of the KFSP scholarship will remain fixed during the duration of enrollment, the need-based portion of the award could change if a family’s financial situation changes in subsequent years.

What will my award look like if I am a financial aid recipient and selected for a Knight Family scholarship?

Families will know the total amount of the financial aid award at the time admissions decisions are made if financial aid forms are filed by the February 7, 2014, deadline. The amount of the Knight Family Scholars merit award will remain fixed during the duration of enrollment. However, the need-based portion of the award could change if a family’s financial situation changes.

I won’t have first semester grades available by early January – how will you assess my transcript?   

Most schools will be able to submit first semester grades by mid-January—and that is fine. If you anticipate your transcript arriving later than January 31, please contact the admission office. 

What level of athlete do I need to be for consideration?

Student-athletes applying for the award should be competing in athletics at a high level. This is an intentionally broad statement because there are many ways to demonstrate this requirement. High-level athletics could be met through regional or national level competition in a single sport. An applicant could also be considered a high-level athlete through competition on multiple varsity-level teams.

I don’t currently do community service. Would I still be considered?

Yes, you can still be considered for the program. We are looking at each application in a holistic manner. Applicants should have an interest in making a difference in their school and community that can be demonstrated in their application, essays, or teacher evaluations. All Catlin Gabel students participate in community service, and Knight Family Scholars will not only be expected to participate in community service but to become leaders in community service.

What criteria for “leadership” will you use when considering applicants?

Students can demonstrate leadership in a variety of ways. Various roles in sports teams, school clubs, and community organizations all could constitute leadership. Students should demonstrate a willingness to make positive changes within their school and community as they progress through the program. In essence, Knight Family Scholars should have the empathy to see the problems and issues around them and the acumen to create actionable solutions. These students will serve as catalysts for other students.

If I am not picked to be a Knight Family Scholar, will I still be considered for regular admission? 

Absolutely. Students who apply to be Knight Family Scholars but are not selected will still be considered for admission to the Upper School and are fully eligible for other scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These candidates will be considered by the Upper School admission committee and admission decisions will be delivered by March 7, 2014.