Yes. Newtown Friends School is accredited by the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS). Through its Commission for Accreditation, PAIS ensures that member schools meet and maintain rigorous, standards-based criteria for educational excellence in Pennsylvania and Delaware.

NFS does not have a high school division, so AP courses are not offered. We also do not have options for dual enrollment with other institutions or public schools.

We offer hands-on STEM & Innovation programs across all grades, including robotics, coding, math circles, and engineering projects. Our enrichment opportunities also feature Math Olympiad and creative problem-solving activities. These programs encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and teamwork from Pre-K through Middle School. You can learn more about our Learning Support and Enrichment and explore how STEM fits into each stage, including Elementary School and Middle School.

Newtown Friends School offers a strong foreign language program starting in Pre-K with a Spanish immersion experience that continues through elementary and middle school. Young learners enjoy early exposure to Spanish, while students in grades 7 and 8 can deepen their skills during a week-long language immersion trip to Costa Rica. This approach helps children develop language skills naturally and gain cultural understanding, preparing them to thrive in a global community. Learn more about our International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program for details on how language fits into our holistic curriculum.

Newtown Friends School offers a range of enriching after-school and extended learning opportunities, with a strong emphasis on the arts. Students can explore creative interests through visual and performing arts programs, including music offerings connected to Grand School music. These programs allow students to develop skills, express creativity, and build confidence in a supportive environment. Learn more about our arts programs at https://www.newtownfriends.org/school-life/arts.

Newtown Friends School does not offer its own summer camp programs. Summer camps are offered by George School, our neighboring independent school. The youngest campers, ages 4–6, participate in camp activities held on the NFS campus, but these programs are operated and managed by George School.

Our Pre-K program is full-time, running Monday through Friday from 8:20 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., matching the K-8 school day. For families needing additional care, we offer before and after-school options, including extended-day care until 6 p.m. These programs provide a safe, engaging environment beyond regular hours, supporting busy family schedules. You can learn more about our extended care and after-school offerings designed especially for younger learners.

Children generally need to be four years old before starting our Pre-K (Preschool) program. Our Pre-K is a full-time, five-day-a-week program designed to nurture early learning through hands-on activities in reading, math, science, and play. We invite applicants to visit for a playgroup to help us understand their readiness. If you want to learn more or begin the application process, we’re happy to guide you every step of the way.
You can explore details about our Pre-K program and admissions process anytime.

Children typically need to be five years old by the start of the school year to begin Kindergarten. At Newtown Friends School, we focus on meeting each child where they are developmentally, providing small classes and personalized attention to ensure a smooth and joyful transition. Families can expect a nurturing environment that balances academics, social-emotional growth, and hands-on learning. To learn more about our Kindergarten program and admissions process, you can explore our Kindergarten details and admission process.

After an application is received, all applicants are invited to visit and spend time in our classrooms as part of the admissions process. This classroom visit allows students to experience the school day and get a feel for the learning environment.

Newtown Friends School serves students from Pre-K through eighth grade. Our Pre-K program generally requires children to be four years old before the school year starts, with admissions visits arranged through playgroups to assess readiness. Kindergarten through eighth-grade applicants join a nurturing, inquiry-based curriculum designed to foster growth at each stage. Families can learn more about each level by exploring our Pre-K, Kindergarten, Elementary School, and Middle School programs.

The main admissions deadline is January 15. Applications received after this date are still welcome and reviewed on a rolling basis as space permits. If you miss the deadline, don’t worry—some grades may have openings or waiting pools. We encourage you to contact us to learn more about availability. Families who complete the process by the deadline will hear decisions by February 28 and need to confirm enrollment by March 1. For details, please see our admission process.

There is a $50 application fee when you submit your enrollment application. Along with the application, you'll request teacher recommendations and school records. This fee helps us process your application and schedule your child's admissions visit. For families applying to grades six through eight, the SSAT test is optional and not required. We’re here to support you through each step of the process to make it as smooth as possible. Learn more about the full admission process.

To apply, please complete the online application and submit a $50 application fee. You’ll also need to request teacher recommendation(s) and school records. For students entering sixth through eighth grade, the SSAT exam is optional. After we receive your application, we’ll schedule an admissions visit—playgroups for pre-K and classroom visits for older students. Once accepted, you’ll submit an enrollment agreement and deposit to reserve your spot. Learn more about the full admission process.

Yes. All applicants experience an academic evaluation during the admissions visit. This applies to students in all grades, from Pre-K through 8th grade, and helps the school understand each child’s learning needs and readiness.

Families who complete the application by the January 15 deadline will be notified of admission decisions by February 28. To reserve a spot, accepted students need to submit an enrollment agreement and deposit by March 1. Applications received after January 15 are reviewed on a rolling basis as space permits, so decisions may come later. We encourage early applications to ensure timely notification and to secure your child’s place in our welcoming community. Learn more about the admission process.

We give preference to siblings of current students when all other admission factors are equal. This means families with children already enrolled have an advantage in the decision process, helping keep siblings together and supporting family continuity. To apply, complete the admission process by January 15 and submit the enrollment agreement by March 1 to reserve a spot. We strive to meet each student’s needs while maintaining a welcoming, inclusive community for all families.

To confirm your child's enrollment, after acceptance, you’ll need to submit an enrollment agreement along with a $1,000 enrollment deposit by March 1. This step secures your child’s spot in the class. Additionally, there is a $50 application fee paid during the application process. Tuition and fees vary by grade level, and families can choose flexible payment plans through Smart Tuition, including monthly installments starting in May. If you’re interested, you may also explore options like the Flexible Tuition program to help with costs. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

During the application process and orientation at Newtown Friends School, parents can expect a welcoming, personal experience tailored to each child’s stage. After submitting the application and necessary documents, families meet with our Director of Enrollment Management and schedule a tour or classroom visit. For younger children, like Pre-K, there are playgroups to assess readiness. Orientation helps parents understand daily routines, school hours, and available programs like before/after care. We provide resources such as a parent guide to support your family’s smooth transition and connection to our caring community.

We offer a Flexible Tuition program that adjusts tuition based on your family’s financial situation, considering income, assets, debt, and number of children in school. About 40% of our families receive support, and applications are confidential and must be submitted annually by January 31. We also provide an installment payment plan for convenience. Additionally, Pennsylvania’s EITC and OSTC tax credit programs allow individuals and businesses to support tuition assistance, helping families in need. While we don’t offer merit scholarships, these options help make a quality education accessible for all ages. Learn more about applying for Flexible Tuition and tax credit programs.

No, the school does not accept state voucher programs.

Tuition for the 2025-2026 school year varies by grade level:
- Pre-K: $20,585 + $100 fees
- Kindergarten to 5th grade: $27,290 + fees ($175 for K-4, $250 for 5th)
- 6th to 8th grade: $28,445 + $300 fees

We offer a Flexible Tuition program that considers many financial factors beyond income, helping about half of our families afford tuition. Payments can be made monthly through our installment plan. For details on applying and support, visit our Flexible Tuition page or contact us directly.

Tuition covers a rich learning experience for all ages, including:

• A 1:1 iPad program (Pre-K through 5th grade)
• Design Lab, Robotics, 3D Printers, and Laser Cutter
• Clubs, activities, and field trips
• Fine arts electives and semi-private violin lessons (3rd grade)
• Athletic team participation
• Secondary School Admission Guidance

These offerings support a well-rounded education from preschool through middle school, helping your child explore interests and develop skills in a supportive environment. Learn more about our field trips and Nature Explore Classroom.

Tuition covers most school experiences like the 1:1 iPad program, clubs, field trips, and athletics. However, additional fees vary by grade level:
- Pre-K: $100
- Kindergarten to 4th grade: $175
- 5th grade: $250
- 6th to 8th grade: $300

Extended-day programs and after-school activities are billed separately, typically at an hourly rate. Families also pay a $50 application fee when applying. For details on fees and payment plans, we’re happy to help you navigate the process.

We offer a Flexible Tuition program that adjusts tuition based on what a family can afford, considering income, assets, debts, and number of children in tuition-charging schools. About 50% of our families qualify each year. Families must apply annually by January 31 through a third-party service to be considered.

Additional tuition assistance comes from the Friends for Friends Fund, which supports families facing financial hardships like job loss.

We also participate in Pennsylvania’s EITC and OSTC tax credit programs, allowing individuals and businesses to contribute to tuition aid while earning tax credits.

For details on applying or other support options, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Newtown Friends School does not offer specific sibling discounts. However, we provide a Flexible Tuition program that helps families manage tuition costs based on their financial situation, including the number of children attending tuition-charging schools. This confidential process considers income, assets, debts, and more to determine an affordable tuition amount. Families can apply annually through the Flexible Tuition program to explore available support. For details on applying and eligibility, we’re happy to assist you through the process.

Newtown Friends School does not offer merit-based scholarships but provides a Flexible Tuition program to help families afford tuition. This program assesses each family’s financial situation through a third-party service to determine a fair tuition amount. Applying for Flexible Tuition is separate from admissions, and families are encouraged to apply early since funds are limited. You can learn more about how this works and apply through the Flexible Tuition section of our website.

We offer flexible tuition options to help families afford a Newtown Friends School education. Our Flexible Tuition program adjusts costs based on what your family can afford, considering income and other financial factors. Families must apply annually by January 31, and awards depend on available funds.

For payment, we partner with Smart Tuition, allowing one-time, two-payment, or ten-month installment plans starting May 1. Payments can be made by auto debit, check, or card. Additionally, families may use PA 529 Plans to pay up to $10,000 per year per student.

For details on applying and payment plans, please visit our affording NFS page.

Tuition is collected through Smart Tuition, offering flexible payment plans: one, two, or ten monthly installments starting May 1. Payments can be made by auto debit, check, or credit/debit card. Families can manage their plan online for convenience.

Flexible Tuition applications are due by January 31 for returning families, with new families applying after acceptance. Keep in mind, tuition covers many enriching experiences, and we’re here to help you explore options like Flexible Tuition or payment plans to fit your family’s needs.

NFS does not have a high school division, so students do not take the SAT.

NFS provides iPads and keyboards to its students.

No, online or hybrid classes are not available.

Teachers use technology like videos and interactive tools to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences across all ages. In early years, videos and play-based methods help children explore concepts naturally, such as watching stories read by real authors. In elementary school, resources like BrainPOP provide visual content to support understanding, while middle school teachers use EdPuzzle, which integrates videos with embedded open-ended and multiple-choice questions. This keeps students accountable and actively engaged as they move through the material. These tools boost curiosity, critical thinking, and communication skills by allowing students to watch educational videos, participate in interactive lessons, and use digital tools for research and presentations. This approach helps children feel confident and connected in their learning journey. Learn more about our International Baccalaureate Program and Nature Explore Classroom for hands-on and tech-supported learning.

At Newtown Friends School, keeping students safe online and in digital spaces is a key part of our commitment to their well-being. We promote responsible technology use through clearly written guidelines shared with families and students. Our student Wi-Fi network is secure and restricted for student use only, and student emails are limited to communicating within the newtownfriends.org domain to ensure safe interactions. We have also removed access to apps that require users to be age 13 or older. Additionally, we use COPPA-compliant services provided by the Chester County Intermediate Unit to further protect student privacy. Alongside these digital safeguards, our caring staff, including advisors and counselors, support students in managing social pressures and digital challenges. Physical safety is ensured through secure campus access and thorough background checks for all adults on campus. Together, these measures create a safe, supportive environment for learners of all ages. Learn more about our middle school program and school life.

At every stage, we teach and promote responsible tech use by integrating clear expectations and modeling healthy habits. Students are required to sign a Responsible Use Policy each academic year, which is supported by teacher-led education on responsible technology use. Our middle school students participate in advisory groups that build social skills, responsible decision-making, and digital citizenship. We reinforce these lessons through our Behavior Guidelines, which include consequences for misuse. We maintain open communication with families to support learning and safety. Additionally, students assist peers and seniors with technology, fostering respect and thoughtful use. This combination of guidance, community values, and practical experience empowers students to use technology responsibly and confidently.

Students at Newtown Friends School have limited screen time during the school day, especially in the early years. In Pre-K, learning focuses on hands-on activities, play, and movement, with no emphasis on screens. From Kindergarten through 5th grade, students participate in a 1:1 iPad program that supports learning in a balanced way, integrated thoughtfully with core subjects and enrichment activities. Typically, 4th and 5th graders have about two hours of screen time daily. Middle school students use technology responsibly as part of a well-rounded curriculum that promotes critical thinking and social-emotional growth, with upper school students averaging around three hours of screen time each day. Learn more about our Pre-K program and elementary school.

Support is provided for the high school application process rather than college planning. NFS helps students and families navigate secondary school choices and applications, but does not offer formal college planning or counseling. Secondary Schools