How do I apply for Tuition Assistance?
At Buen Dia Family School, we believe that families from a wide range of economic backgrounds should have the opportunity to be part of our community. We work to help families understand the different tuition assistance options that may be available to them.
Buen Dia is a partner of the San Francisco Department of Early Childhood (DEC) and participates in Early Learning for All (ELFA). Depending on a family's household income, family size, and care needs, ELFA may help cover part or all of the cost of early care and education.
Early Learning for All (ELFA)
Families who are interested in ELFA can share their information with us during the admissions process. We will help families understand the steps involved and what documentation may be needed.
ELFA eligibility and funding are determined through the ELFA process and may take some time to finalize. Families may be asked to provide recent income documentation, proof of San Francisco residency, and birth certificates for children under 18.
Because every family's circumstances are different, we encourage families to begin the ELFA process as early as possible so they have a better understanding of what their tuition costs may look like.
ELFA and Your Enrollment at Buen Dia
We understand that waiting for an ELFA decision can create uncertainty when you are also making plans for your child's enrollment. ELFA funding and the Buen Dia enrollment process are two separate processes, and families do not need to wait for their ELFA award to be finalized before completing their Buen Dia enrollment requirements.
When a family is offered a place at Buen Dia, the enrollment contract must be completed by the stated deadline, even if the family's ELFA application or award is still being processed. Completing the Buen Dia enrollment contract reserves your child's place in our program and confirms your family's enrollment with the school.
An ELFA application or pending award does not postpone or replace the Buen Dia enrollment contract. Once ELFA funding is finalized, we will work with the family to apply the approved funding toward tuition according to the ELFA program requirements.
Our goal is to make this process as clear and supportive as possible. If you are waiting for an ELFA determination and have questions about how it relates to your tuition or enrollment, please reach out to our Administration Team. We are happy to help you understand what we know and what the next steps are.
Buen Dia Tuition Assistance
In addition to ELFA, Buen Dia may have limited tuition assistance or scholarship support available. These resources depend on available funding and each family's circumstances.
If tuition presents a financial hardship for your family, please let us know during the admissions process. We encourage families to reach out early so that we can discuss the options that may be available.
If the application fee itself presents a financial hardship, please contact our Administration Team to discuss available options.
All information shared regarding financial circumstances and tuition assistance is treated confidentially. Tuition assistance and ELFA eligibility may need to be reviewed or renewed each year, and funding and eligibility requirements may change.
