Harvard Westlake High School Tuition: Education is one of the most significant investments families make for their children’s future. Among the nation’s most respected independent schools, Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, California, stands out as a beacon of academic excellence, personal growth, and college preparation. However, one of the most common questions prospective families ask is: “How much is the tuition at Harvard-Westlake High School?”
In this detailed article, we will explore everything you need to know about Harvard-Westlake High School tuition, fees, financial aid opportunities, payment options, and the real value behind its educational experience. You’ll also find a comprehensive table of important links and information, along with a FAQ section and a thoughtful conclusion to help you make an informed decision about this prestigious institution.
Introduction to Harvard-Westlake School
Harvard-Westlake School is a private, coeducational, college preparatory day school located in Los Angeles, California. It serves students in grades 7 through 12 across two campuses:
- Middle School Campus: Located in Holmby Hills (grades 7–9)
- Upper School Campus: Located in Studio City (grades 10–12)
The school was established in 1991 following the merger of two historic schools — Harvard School for Boys (founded in 1900) and Westlake School for Girls (founded in 1904). Since then, Harvard-Westlake has become synonymous with academic rigor, artistic excellence, and athletic achievement.
With a student body of approximately 1,600 students, Harvard-Westlake boasts an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of around 8:1, allowing for personalized instruction and mentorship that prepares students for elite universities and successful futures.
Overview of Tuition for 2025
Tuition at Harvard-Westlake High School represents a significant financial commitment. As of the 2025 academic year, the annual tuition for grades 9–12 typically falls around $47,000–$50,000 per year.
This figure reflects comprehensive educational expenses, including access to top-tier faculty, modern facilities, extracurricular programs, arts, and athletics. However, families should note that this cost does not include additional expenses such as books, uniforms, transportation, or lunch programs.
Here’s a general overview of tuition-related costs:
| Category | Estimated Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Annual Tuition (Grades 9–12) | $47,000 – $50,000 |
| Annual Tuition (Grades 7–8) | $46,000 – $48,000 |
| Application Fee (non-refundable) | $150 |
| New Student Fee (one-time) | $2,000 |
| Books and Supplies | $800 – $1,200 per year |
| Technology Fee | $500 – $1,000 per year |
| Lunch Program (optional) | $1,200 – $2,000 per year |
| Sports / Extracurricular Fees (varies) | $200 – $1,000 per activity |
| Transportation (optional) | $1,000 – $2,000 per year |
| Total Estimated Annual Cost (without aid) | $52,000 – $58,000 |
Understanding the Value of Harvard-Westlake Tuition
While the tuition may seem high, the value of a Harvard-Westlake education goes far beyond classroom learning. Families are investing in an institution that offers:
1. Exceptional Academic Standards
Harvard-Westlake offers one of the most rigorous academic curricula in the United States, including:
- Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses in sciences, humanities, and mathematics.
- A commitment to intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and creative exploration.
- Innovative programs in research, ethics, global studies, and entrepreneurship.
2. World-Class Faculty
With a highly qualified faculty — many holding advanced degrees from top universities — Harvard-Westlake ensures that students receive exceptional instruction and mentorship. Teachers inspire students to challenge themselves while offering support and individualized feedback.
3. State-of-the-Art Facilities
Both campuses feature modern academic buildings, art studios, science labs, athletic complexes, and performing arts centers that rival many college campuses.
4. Holistic Student Development
The school promotes a balanced approach to education, integrating academics with athletics, visual and performing arts, leadership, and service learning. Students are encouraged to cultivate both intellectual and emotional intelligence.
5. College Placement Success
Graduates of Harvard-Westlake consistently gain admission to top universities, including Ivy League schools, Stanford, MIT, and top liberal arts colleges. The school’s college counseling department works closely with each student to identify the best academic and personal fit.
Financial Aid Opportunities
Harvard-Westlake believes that financial circumstances should never stand in the way of an exceptional education. The school has a strong commitment to need-based financial aid and allocates millions of dollars each year to support eligible families.
Key Features of the Financial Aid Program
- Need-Based Assistance Only:
Financial aid awards are based solely on demonstrated financial need. The school does not offer merit-based scholarships. - Average Aid Award:
Depending on family circumstances, awards can range from a few thousand dollars to full tuition coverage. - Confidential Process:
All financial aid applications and decisions are strictly confidential. - Application Platform:
Harvard-Westlake uses the School and Student Services (SSS) platform by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) for financial aid applications.
How to Apply for Financial Aid?
Families applying for aid should follow these steps:
- Complete the Parents’ Financial Statement (PFS) on the SSS platform.
- Submit federal tax returns, W-2s, and supporting documents by the specified deadlines.
- Review financial aid award notifications before enrollment contracts are due.
Financial Aid Deadlines (Typical Schedule)
| Process | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Submit PFS (Financial Aid Application) | January 10 |
| Upload Required Documents | January 15 |
| Admission Decisions Announced | March |
| Financial Aid Award Notifications | March |
Payment Options and Plans
Harvard-Westlake offers several payment options to help families manage tuition expenses conveniently:
- One-Time Annual Payment:
Families pay the full tuition amount by July 1 before the academic year begins. - Two-Payment Plan:
Payments are divided — 60% due by July 1 and 40% due by December 1. - Monthly Payment Plan:
Families can spread tuition payments over 10 or 12 months, with automatic withdrawals to make budgeting easier.
Each option includes a non-refundable enrollment deposit (typically around $2,000–$3,000) credited toward the total tuition.
Additional Fees and Costs
While tuition covers most educational expenses, families should anticipate additional costs throughout the academic year:
- Extracurricular Activities: Participation in clubs, performing arts, and athletic teams may have associated fees.
- Travel Costs: Field trips, sports tournaments, and academic conferences may require separate payments.
- Technology: Students may need laptops or tablets that meet school specifications.
- Uniforms: Some sports and formal events require uniforms purchased by the family.
Financial Accessibility Initiatives
Harvard-Westlake continues to emphasize inclusivity and diversity by supporting students from all financial backgrounds. Some initiatives include:
- Book and Lunch Assistance: Students receiving financial aid often get additional support for textbooks, meals, and transportation.
- Fee Waivers: Application and testing fees can be waived for families demonstrating financial need.
- Counseling Support: The school’s financial aid office helps families navigate aid renewal and payment planning each year.
Why the Investment Is Worth It?
The tuition at Harvard-Westlake is not just a payment for education — it is an investment in lifelong opportunities. The school’s graduates are well-prepared to thrive at leading universities and in professional fields such as business, law, medicine, and the arts.
Moreover, the Harvard-Westlake community fosters networking opportunities, character development, and global awareness, shaping not only scholars but also responsible and innovative citizens.
Important Links and Information
| Category | Details / Links |
|---|---|
| School Name | Harvard-Westlake School |
| Type | Private, Coeducational, College Preparatory |
| Founded | 1991 (Merger of Harvard School and Westlake School) |
| Grades Served | 7–12 |
| Middle School Campus | 700 North Faring Road, Los Angeles, CA |
| Upper School Campus | 3700 Coldwater Canyon Avenue, Studio City, CA |
| Tuition (2025) | $47,000 – $50,000 per year |
| Application Fee | $150 (non-refundable) |
| New Student Fee | $2,000 (one-time) |
| Financial Aid Type | Need-Based Only |
| Financial Aid Platform | School and Student Services (SSS) |
| Financial Aid Deadline | January 10 (PFS submission) |
| Official Website | https://www.hw.com |
| Contact (Admissions) | admissions@hw.com |
| Contact (Financial Aid) | finaid@hw.com |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approximately 8:1 |
| Enrollment | Around 1,600 students |
| College Counseling Department | Comprehensive, 1-on-1 guidance |
| Payment Plans | Annual, Semi-Annual, Monthly |
| Affiliation | Independent, Non-Religious |
FAQ about Harvard Westlake High School Tuition
How much is tuition at Harvard-Westlake High School?
Tuition for the 2025 academic year is approximately $47,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the grade level.
Does Harvard-Westlake offer financial aid?
Yes. The school provides need-based financial aid to families who qualify based on demonstrated financial need.
Does Harvard-Westlake offer merit scholarships?
No. Financial aid is entirely need-based, not merit-based.
Are there additional costs beyond tuition?
Yes. Families should budget for books, technology, extracurricular activities, transportation, and optional lunch programs.
How do I apply for financial aid?
Families must submit the Parents’ Financial Statement (PFS) through the School and Student Services (SSS) platform by January 10, along with supporting documents.
Can tuition be paid in installments?
Yes. The school offers annual, two-installment, and monthly payment plans to fit family needs.
What percentage of students receive financial aid?
Typically, about 20–25% of the student body receives financial aid.
What is included in the tuition?
Tuition covers academic instruction, basic school materials, and access to campus facilities, but not lunch, books, or extracurricular costs.
Are tuition fees the same for middle and high school?
No. Middle school tuition (grades 7–8) is slightly lower than upper school tuition (grades 9–12).
Where can I get more information about Harvard-Westlake admissions and tuition?
You can visit the official website at www.hw.com or contact the admissions office directly via email.
Conclusion
Choosing Harvard-Westlake High School is a commitment to excellence. While the tuition represents a significant financial investment, it provides access to one of the most rigorous, inspiring, and transformative educational experiences available in the country.
The school’s combination of academic challenge, supportive community, and strong college preparation makes it an ideal environment for students who are ambitious, curious, and eager to make a difference.
For families concerned about cost, Harvard-Westlake’s robust financial aid program ensures that talented students from diverse economic backgrounds can access its world-class education. By planning ahead and exploring all available options, parents can make this remarkable educational opportunity both achievable and worthwhile.
In essence, the tuition at Harvard-Westlake is more than just a number — it’s an investment in knowledge, character, and lifelong opportunity.