TUITION AND FINANCIAL AID

Ensuring Access For All Students

The O’Dowd community is deeply committed to accessibility. Our tuition covers roughly 88 percent of our expenses, with the generous philanthropy of our current families, alumni, and friends of O’Dowd fulfilling the remaining operating budget. We do this because we are dedicated to ensuring that O’Dowd is affordable to as many families as possible. Paired with tuition assistance, which funds 30 percent of our students, we remain steadfast in making O’Dowd a place of belonging for every family.

2026-2027 Tuition and Fees

$28,380

$1,100

Tuition

Enrollment Deposit (non-refundable; not reduced by financial aid)

$29,480 Total

Additional Fees

Additional expenses may be incurred for technology and books, as well as optional student activities such as athletics, co-curricular clubs, and student programs.

30%

of Students Receive Financial Aid

13-15%

of O’Dowd Tuition is Covered by Philanthropy

Parent Pledge

To bridge the gap between the actual cost of an O’Dowd education and tuition charged, we ask families to make an annual tax-deductible pledge of $2,400 for each of their enrolled students. The Parent Pledge directly funds our dedicated and talented teachers, and our award-winning programs, including drama, debate, athletics, and our Living Lab. The Parent Pledge also funds our enriching campus ministry program, leadership development opportunities, as well as our expanded counseling center, with student wellness programs and comprehensive academic support.

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Financial Aid and Scholarships

Bishop O’Dowd High School is committed to access and affordability. We strive to provide financial aid to as many qualified students with demonstrated financial need as our resources allow.

How to Apply
To apply for financial aid for the 2027–2028 school year, please complete the FACTS Financial Aid Application. O'Dowd partners with FACTS to assess financial need, collect income information, and process tax documentation.

Application Fee: A $35 non-refundable fee is required by FACTS and must be paid online during submission.
Admissions Requirement: You must also submit a complete admissions application to be considered for financial aid.
Detailed Guide: Please review the Financial Aid Application Instructions and FAQ before starting your form.

Important Deadlines
Your FACTS application and all supporting documentation must be submitted by the following dates:

Incoming 9th Grade & Transfer Students: January 14, 2027
Returning Students: February 11, 2027

If you have additional questions about financial aid, please contact Nancy MacKinnon by email at nmackinnon@bishopodowd.org.

Additional Assistance Programs

Please review the specific income guidelines for each to see if your family qualifies:

Family Aid Catholic Education (FACE): If your income falls within the Face Guidelines simply check the "FACE" box under the organization section on your FACTS application. No separate application is required.

Bay Scholars: If your income falls within the Bay Scholars Guidelines, you must submit a separate application using the Bay Scholars Application.

O’Dowd offers one merit-based scholarship - The Presidential Scholarship Award. It is awarded during the application process to students who exhibit exemplary academics and a strong commitment to the community.

Questions?

We are here to help. Contact Nancy MacKinnon in our business office for assistance.

Phone: (510) 577-9100 Ext. 171

Email: nmackinnon@bishopodowd.org