Financial Assistance

Cost should not be a barrier to a Christ-centered education. We offer multiple ways to help families afford Salem.

Private School May Be More Affordable Than You Think

Many families assume private school is out of reach. At Salem Lutheran School in Greenfield, MN, we work hard to make a Christ-centered education accessible. Between need-based financial aid, multi-child discounts, member rates, and Minnesota tax benefits, the actual cost is often lower than families expect.

We believe every child who wants a Salem education should have the opportunity. If tuition is the one thing standing between your family and this school, we want to have that conversation with you.

Ways Salem Helps Families Afford Tuition

There is no single solution for every family. Here are the options available to help make Salem work for yours.

Need-Based Financial Aid

Salem offers a need-based financial aid program through FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment. Families apply online. FACTS evaluates your financial situation and Salem determines an aid award based on the results.

If the approved amount is not enough, you are encouraged to speak with our Principal or Education Committee.

Multi-Child Discounts

Tuition decreases for each additional child enrolled. Second children and third-plus children receive reduced rates automatically. The more children you enroll, the more your family saves.

WELS/ELS Member Rates

Active members of a WELS or ELS congregation receive a reduced tuition rate. Let us know your membership status during enrollment and we will apply the correct rate.

Anchored in Christ Member Rates

Members of Anchored in Christ Lutheran Ministries receive the lowest tuition rate available. This reflects the close partnership between Salem Lutheran School and its home congregation.

Request Tuition & Admissions Information

Prefer to reach out directly? Call (763) 498-7283 or email school@salemwels.org.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

The process is straightforward and confidential.

1. Complete Your School Application

Apply to Salem through FACTS beginning February 1. Your school application and financial aid request can be submitted at the same time.

2. Submit a FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment

Through your FACTS account, complete the Grant & Aid Assessment. This is a confidential review of your family’s financial situation.

3. Receive Your Determination

FACTS evaluates your information and Salem determines a financial aid award. You will be notified of the result and your adjusted tuition.

4. Talk to Us if You Need More Help

If the approved amount does not meet your family’s needs, contact our Principal or Education Committee. We want to make this work.

Minnesota Tax Benefits for Private School Families

Minnesota is one of the few states that offers tax benefits specifically for K–12 education expenses—including private school tuition. These programs can meaningfully reduce the net cost of attending Salem.

K–12 Education Credit

Minnesota offers a refundable tax credit worth 75% of qualifying education expenses, up to $1,500 per child in grades K–12. This credit is available to families below certain income thresholds.

Qualifying expenses include textbooks, school supplies, tutoring, educational equipment, and transportation. Note: private school tuition qualifies for the subtraction only, not the credit.

K–12 Education Subtraction

Minnesota also allows a tax subtraction of up to $1,625 per child in grades K–6 and $2,500 per child in grades 7–12. This subtraction reduces your taxable income.

Private school tuition, textbooks, fees, and other qualifying expenses are eligible. There is no income limit for claiming the subtraction.

Federal School Choice Tax Credit

A new federal tax-credit scholarship program was included in the 2025 federal budget. If Minnesota opts in, taxpayers could receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit for donations to nonprofit Scholarship Granting Organizations that fund private school scholarships. This program is still being decided at the state level.

We encourage families to consult a tax advisor for the latest updates and to understand which benefits apply to your situation.

These tax programs apply to families at both public and private schools. Save your receipts for tuition, textbooks, school supplies, and qualifying educational expenses throughout the year.

Don't Let Cost Be the Reason You Don't Call

We want to help your family find a way. Schedule a tour, ask about financial aid, and let us show you what Salem can offer your child.