The program fee is $750 per student. This amount represents about 40% of the total cost per student, the other 60% of the cost is covered by grants and donations. From these grants and donations we have created a fund to offset the cost of the program fee for families that cannot afford to pay the full amount. The level of financial assistance will depend on available funding and level of need. Each student may request up to $950 in assistance to offset the cost of the program.
To qualify for financial assistance a family will have to demonstrate economic hardship by providing evidence (e.g. student's participation in free and reduced meals at school, federal income tax returns, any document showing recurring expenses like mortgage, rent, student debt, etc.). We will consider financial assistance for families with a gross income below 200% of Federal Poverty Levels (https://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty-guidelines) and/or students who are currently participating in Free and Reduced Meals programs.
Program fee includes workshops, industry visits, 3D printing/manufacturing equipment, materials, and some meals. The program fee is collected only if and when the student is accepted into the program. The program fee is non-refundable after the program starts.