Tuition Assistance and Savings

Choosing a Christian education for your family is a faith-filled commitment, that establishes a trusting partnership, and ultimately has a profound impact on your child.  The 2022-23 Tuition and Fee Schedule positions DMC to deliver our mission, invest in exceptional student experiences, and focus on strategic priorities for the future.   

Many families who desire to send their children to Des Moines Christian School also have questions about financial assistance. DMC recognizes that Christian education is an investment for your family. We want to make this education accessible, and give every qualified, mission-appropriate student the opportunity to attend DMC.  

   Tuition Savings Opportunities
   Example is based on tuition for one incoming elementary student.
   Tuition Total   $9,487                                                               
   Iowa Tuition and Textbook Credit/State Tax Return
   (increased from $250)		   -$500
   Transportation Reimbursement/filed with your district   -$431
   DMC paid in full discount   -$100
   DMC Dollars - average family rebate   -$170
   Contribution to 529 for DMC tuition $7,044 - Iowa Income Tax Savings*   - $493
   Net before Needs-Based Tuition Assistance   $7,793

*estimated at 7% income tax

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     Iowa 529 Plan 

    A College Savings Iowa 529 Plan is a type of investment account families can use to save for qualified education expenses, including K-12 tuition at DMC. Earnings in a 529 plan grow tax-free and are not taxed when they're withdrawn. In 2022, participants can deduct up to $3,522 of their contributions, per beneficiary, per parent to determine adjusted gross income for Iowa income tax purposes.
     Iowa Tuition & Textbook Credit
    Families can claim a credit of up to $500 for tuition and textbook payments on their State of Iowa income tax return. Consult your accountant and the Iowa Department of Revenue for more information on your specific tax situation and eligibility. 
     DMC Dollars
    Gift certificates to local and national retailers and restaurants can be purchased through the nationwide program ShopWithScrip and a portion of the purchase is credited towards tuition or a student lunch account. The average rebate is $170 per participating family. Learn more and sign up for the program.   
     Transportation Credit
    Families may be eligible to receive reimbursement for transportation expenses from their public school district. For the 20-21 school year, the District reimbursement paid directly to parents averaged $431 per eligible student.  Eligibility and filing instruction are unique to each public school district.   
     Needs-Based Tuition Assistance

    One in five DMC students receive tuition assistance, and more than $825,000 was distributed in the 21-22 school year.

    DMC begins accepting tuition assistance applications for the next school year in February. Priority submission deadline for applications is April 1. Links to the application are available in Lion Campus for  enrolled families. 

    Families who meet one or more of the following criteria are encouraged to apply.

     1. Household size and income as established by the State of Iowa and facilitated through the Heart of Iowa School Tuition Assistance Organization (STO). 

     Household Size

     Max Income for 20-21 School Year
    2021 Federal 1040 Tax Return Line 9
    2 $73,240
    3 $92,120
    4 $111,000
    5 $129,880
    6 $148,760
    7  $167,640
    8 $186,520
    Each Additional Person +$18,880

    2.  Households whose DMC tuition expense is approximately 12% or more of their gross income.

    3. Families with other special financial circumstances.