Non-Resident Tuition

As a public school system, City Schools of Decatur is tuition-free for students who meet age and residency requirements set forth in state law and district policy. Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year for grades K-2 and 3-5, City Schools of Decatur is planning to offer paid tuition for non-resident students.

Frequently Asked Questions

For which grades and schools will paid tuition be available?

For the 2025-2026 school year, we will introduce paid tuition for non-resident students at our K-2 and 3-5 schools for grades where space is available. CSD uses current enrollment and enrollment projections to determine the specific number of tuition-based seats we anticipate by grade and school. Therefore, the number of seats will be different for each grade level and school and may not be available at every grade level or school site. Available seat numbers are subject to change.

What is the non-resident tuition rate for the 2025-2026 school year?

The tuition rate for the 2025-2026 school year will be $7,883.

How is the tuition amount determined?

Tuition is calculated annually. It is based on a state formula that takes into consideration actual expenditures, state revenue, and midterm full time equivalent (FTE) staff from the previous year. The tuition amount represents an estimated local cost per student.

Are children of CSD employees able to attend CSD schools?

Yes, as a CSD employee benefit, non-resident staff may apply annually for courtesy tuition. This benefit does not require CSD employees to pay tuition for their children to attend City Schools of Decatur. 

Which CSD schools and grades are expected to have non-resident tuition seats available for students in the 2025-2026 school year?

Availability of tuition seats is based on current and projected enrollments by school by grade level. The following seats are currently anticipated for the 2025-2026 school year. Refer to these estimated projections below, which are subject to change.  

Estimated Non-Resident Tuition Seat Availability (2025-2026 School Year)

When will the application window open?

The application for non-resident tuition-based enrollment is anticipated to open in April 2025. The exact date will be published once confirmed. 

What are my next steps? How can I learn more?

Stay tuned for additional information about this opportunity on the CSD website to learn more and guide your next steps.