How We Support Families
Approximately 30% of LCS students receive tuition assistance or an Entrance Award each year.
Every year, a significant number of LCS families receive needs-based tuition assistance or an Entrance Award that helps make an LCS education accessible. Our process is confidential, compassionate, and grounded in our commitment to welcoming students from a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences.
This page explains how Tuition Assistance works, what families can expect, and the ways our awards support students and families.
How Tuition Assistance WorksA clear, confidential process shaped around your family’s needs. Lakefield College School partners with Apple Financial Services (AFS) to provide an impartial assessment of each family’s financial circumstances. AFS reviews income, expenses, dependents, and other commitments to determine demonstrated need. Using this assessment and available funding each year, LCS offers needs-based support to eligible families. All applications are reviewed confidentially and with care. Learn About Apple Financial Services ![]()
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EligibilityUnderstanding who may qualify for Tuition Assistance. Tuition assistance is open to Day, North American Boarding, and International Boarding applicants who demonstrate financial need. AFS evaluates each family individually, considering income, expenses, dependents, and other financial responsibilities. Families with multiple children in tuition-charging schools or experiencing significant changes in circumstances are encouraged to apply or begin the conversation early. Contact Admissions to Discuss Eligibility ![]()
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How to ApplySimple steps to begin the Tuition Assistance process. Begin by submitting your LCS application. Once underway, families complete the AFS assessment, which provides LCS with an independent review of financial need. AFS shares its report directly with the school, and tuition assistance decisions are made once admissions and financial reviews are complete. Families reapply annually to confirm continued eligibility. ![]()
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Named Scholarships and Bursaries
A small number of named awards at Lakefield College School are made possible through the generosity of alumni and philanthropic families. These awards honour our history, celebrate leadership and service, and ensure transformational opportunities for students from across Canada.
Entrance Awards of Distinction
These awards support students who show initiative, promise, and a genuine engagement with learning and community life.
| Academic Award of Distinction |
The Academic Award of Distinction recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional curiosity, achievement, and enthusiasm for learning. Recipients model a deep love of inquiry and a commitment to academic growth across disciplines. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalThe Academic Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
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| Leadership, Character & Values Award |
The Leadership, Character & Values Award recognizes students who consistently demonstrate integrity, empathy, courage, and a desire to make positive contributions to their communities. These students embody the spirit of ‘care, connect, and contribute,’ inspiring others through their actions and example. Process to Apply
Note: This award is non-renewable |
| Community Service Award of Distinction |
The Community Service Award recognizes students with a strong commitment to service, civic engagement, and improving the lives of others. Recipients demonstrate compassion, social responsibility, and sustained involvement in meaningful service activities. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalThe Community Service Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
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| The Arts Award of Distinction |
The Arts Award of Distinction recognizes students with a passion for creative expression in visual arts, music, drama, or interdisciplinary arts. Recipients demonstrate originality, discipline, and a desire to grow artistically while contributing to the LCS arts community. Process to Apply
Note: Applicants may be invited to an interview or audition. Criteria for RenewalThe Arts Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
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| Musical Theatre Award of Distinction |
The Musical Theatre Award recognizes students who demonstrate passion and skill in singing, dancing, acting, or musical theatre production. Recipients contribute positively to the performing arts community and show a commitment to developing their craft. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalThe Musical Theatre Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
Short-listed candidates may be contacted for an audition and/or interview |
| Outdoor Education Award of Distinction |
The Outdoor Education Award recognizes students who embrace outdoor adventure, environmental stewardship, and the spirit of teamwork and resilience. Recipients contribute to the LCS outdoor community through curiosity, leadership, and a commitment to learning outside. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalThe Outdoor Education Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
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| Environmental Responsibility Award of Distinction |
The Environmental Responsibility Award recognizes students who demonstrate leadership in sustainability, conservation, and environmental action. Recipients are change-makers committed to protecting the natural world and inspiring others to act. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalThe Environmental Responsibility Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
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| Athletics Award of Distinction |
The Athletics Award recognizes students who demonstrate athletic skill, dedication, sportsmanship, and a commitment to team culture. Recipients show leadership on and off the field and strive for excellence in both training and competition. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalThe Athletics Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
Short-listed candidates may be contacted for an audition and/or interview. |
| Team Racing (Sailing) Award of Distinction |
The Team Racing Award recognizes students with strong sailing experience, a passion for racing, and the discipline required for competitive performance. Recipients contribute to LCS’s tradition of excellence in sailing. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalThe Team Racing Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
Short-listed candidates may be contacted for an interview. |
| Nordic Skiing Award of Distinction |
The Nordic Skiing Award recognizes students committed to training, discipline, and competitive performance in cross-country skiing. Recipients model resilience, teamwork, and dedication to the sport. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalThe Nordic/Alpine Skiing Award of Distinction may be renewed annually, provided that families complete the Apple Financial Services application and financial need is demonstrated. Additionally, applicants must:
Short-listed candidates may be contacted for an interview. |
| Canadian National Boarder Award |
The Canadian National Boarder Award recognizes Grade 9 Canadian boarding students who reside full time in Canada and demonstrate character, leadership potential, and readiness to contribute to the LCS community. Process to Apply
Criteria for RenewalIn order to maintain the Canadian National Boarder Entrance Award of Distinction in subsequent years, recipients are required to:
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Real Scenarios
What Tuition Assistance Looks Like for Families

Examples to help you understand how Tuition Assistance works
Every family’s financial picture is unique.
These fictionalized case studies show how different factors—income, savings, household size, and educational costs—shape what a family may contribute and whether they qualify for assistance. They’re designed to give you clarity, not assumptions, and to help you plan with confidence.



