Tuition and Payments

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North Cascades Institute is committed to making our programs accessible to all students by offering tuition on a sliding scale.

Tuition 100% 75% 50% 25% 2%
9-day trip $1570 $1100 $785 $329 $25 acceptance fee

To determine where you fall on our sliding scale, consider the following questions: 

  • Does your family own your home or property? 
  • Did/do most of your family attend private education institutions or have advanced degrees?
  • Does your family NOT have difficulty accessing or affording healthcare?
  • Does your family have zero debt and / or disposable income?
  • Does your family have U.S Citizenship?
  • Does your family's income support only immediate family, not other loved ones?
  • Have you or does your family expect to inherit property or money?
  • NOT qualify for free and reduced lunch? 

If you answered...

All YES: Pay 100%

Mostly YES: Pay 75%

Half YES and half NO: Pay 50%

Mostly NO: Pay 25%

All NO: Pay 2% (only the $25 acceptance fee)

These questions are intended to help you figure out where you fall on the tuition scale, but do not determine the actual amount you'll pay. In your online application, you'll choose a tuition level that is authentic — but not a hardship for your family.  If you are a Champions of Diversity Award Recipient, you automatically qualify for a full scholarship, please mark the “Champions of Diversity” box on your application.

When will I know if I will receive a scholarship?

We are typically able to give students the tuition amount they select on our sliding scale when they apply.  All applicants and parents will be notified about their tuition amount when we offer spots. 

When are the fees for courses due?

If you are accepted to one of our courses, you must submit a $25 non-refundable acceptance fee within 4 days to hold your spot. All remaining tuition fees will be due June 26th. If submitting payment in full by that date is a burden, please contact us to schedule a payment plan.  

What is your refund policy?

The acceptance fee is non-refundable.  If a course is cancelled by NCI for any reason, including COVID or a weather event, participants will receive a full refund.

We cannot provide refunds to any student who is removed from a trip.  If a student needs to leave a trip for behavioral or medical reason, they will not be eligible for a refund.  

Further Questions?

Please see our FAQ page or contact us at (360) 722-1082 or .