Tuition & Affordability
We are committed to providing world-class education while understanding the financial commitments that families make for quality education.
Anticipating the Future
We recognize the challenges in predicting tuition costs for our opening in 2026. As we lay the foundations for a school that champions innovation, STEM, and entrepreneurship, we’re also considering every facet of affordability for our families.
Our Commitment: The Pre-Opening Rate
To show our gratitude to families ready to embark on this journey with us from the very start, we are introducing a special Pre-Opening Rate for the first 100 students. Families who register in advance will secure this preferential tuition rate for the inaugural year, 2026.
This offer serves as our way of saying thank you for your early trust and commitment. Please note that this rate will be available until the Spring of 2025, after which the standard tuition for 2026 will be published.
Looking Forward
While we are yet to finalize the tuition for 2026 and beyond, we assure families that our rates will reflect our commitment to excellence and value. Our partnerships with world-renowned institutions and our promise of a holistic STEM-focused education will always be at the forefront.
Our Fees
Application Fee – $250
Testing Fee – $750
Application and Testing Fees are nonrefundable. If you are concerned that the full cost of testing may be out of your reach, we encourage you to contact us to discuss this. See also our Financial Assistance Overview below.
Tuition Fee
| Grades KG – 5th Grade – $33,480 | |
| Grades 6-8 – $35,910 |
Tuition, fees, and supplies may qualify as an annual tax credit as set out in the Illinois tax credit law. Check with your tax preparer or the Illinois Department of Revenue.
What Your Tuition Covers
At Orion STEM Schools, we ensure that our tuition encompasses a broad range of essential academic resources and experiences. Included in the tuition fees are:
- Classroom Materials: Every student will have access to the necessary tools for an optimal learning experience.
- Lab Supplies: Essential for hands-on STEM activities, our labs are stocked with top-notch materials.
- School-time Activities: From science fairs to robotics contests, our in-school activities provide a holistic experience.
- Gym Facilities: Encouraging physical well-being is crucial, and our gym facilities are second to none.
- Publications: Students receive any necessary publications, from literary magazines to science journals.
- Graduation: Celebrating milestones is crucial; hence, graduation fees are covered, as applicable, by grade level.
What Isn’t Covered
While our tuition provides comprehensive academic resources, certain offerings, and experiences fall outside of its scope. The following items are not included in Orion’s tuition and fees:
- Cafeteria Meal Plans: We offer a variety of meal options, with plans available for purchase.
- Before and After-School Clubs: Additional fees apply to students who participate in these enrichment programs.
- Textbooks: Some courses may require textbooks that need to be purchased or rented separately.
- Gym Clothes: Students are responsible for purchasing their gym attire.
- Musical Instrument Rental and Accessories: For our budding musicians, instruments can be rented, and necessary accessories purchased separately.
- Photography Supplies: Students enrolled in photography courses will need specific equipment and materials.
- Departmental Activities: Certain specialized department activities may have additional fees.
- Athletic Equipment: For intramural and extramural sports, players may need to purchase or rent their equipment.
- Extracurricular Club Conferences & Field Trips: Trips and conferences related to club activities might have separate costs.
We always strive for transparency in our financial matters, ensuring that families can plan and budget effectively. For further details or queries, please get in touch with our admissions office.
Understanding that each family’s financial situation is unique, we offer need-based financial assistance for both admission testing and tuition.
- Admission Testing: Eligible families can obtain awards that cover up to 90% of the costs associated with admission testing when conducted by an approved Orion STEM Schools consulting tester.
- Tuition Assistance: We’re committed to making our education accessible. Assistance awards can cover as much as 90% of the total tuition, ensuring that financial constraints do not limit educational opportunities.
To ensure fairness and impartiality, all financial assistance applications are processed through the FACTS system, a trusted third-party verification service. Be advised that FACTS charges a non-refundable application fee. For a deeper understanding of how FACTS works, FACTS Link.
