Parents
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right school for your student is an important decision — and one that can take time.
For nearly 80 years, Norfolk Collegiate has been educating students in Hampton Roads. We’re a school steeped in tradition, while also looking ahead and embracing new ideas, opportunities and ways of learning. Most importantly, we’re a community where everyone belongs.
We understand that for families who are new to the independent school admissions process, choosing a school and navigating the admissions process can feel overwhelming. That’s why our admissions team is here to help. We’re happy to answer your questions, guide you through the process and help you determine whether Norfolk Collegiate is the right fit for your student and family.
Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. If you have a question that isn’t addressed here, we encourage you to reach out to our friendly and knowledgeable admissions team.
We look forward to getting to know your family and hope to welcome you to Norfolk Collegiate soon!
Tuition & Financial Aid: FAQs
List of 15 items.
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Is Norfolk Collegiate accredited?
Yes. Norfolk Collegiate is accredited through the Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS).Accreditation provides families with assurance that Norfolk Collegiate is held to established standards for educational quality, governance, faculty and staff, student well-being and school operations. The VAIS accreditation process includes regular evaluation, reflection and continuous improvement, helping ensure that the school remains accountable to its mission and the students and families it serves.VAIS accreditation is recognized by the Virginia Council for Private Education (VCPE), which is authorized by the Virginia State Board of Education to oversee accreditation of private schools in Virginia. -
Is Norfolk Collegiate religiously affiliated?
No. Norfolk Collegiate is not affiliated with any religion. -
What's the difference between public and private/independent school?
Public schools are funded by the government and students attend the school based upon the school district in which they live. Some students are able to attend a different public school based on health or daycare waivers or specific programs offered at the school. Public schools must admit every student they service and have to offer accommodations for students who have special needs. Public schools also follow state or federal-mandated programs and standards, such as the Standards of Learning.
Private schools vary widely, which is why we encourage families to find the right fit for their student and their family's needs.
Private schools are accredited; however, they are funded solely on tuition, grants and fundraising efforts. Private schools do not enroll students like public schools do. Instead, families need to complete an application, tour the school and in many cases, have a shadow day or play date at the school. However, not all families who apply are accepted. Private schools look at the student's behavior, scholastic achievements, community involvement, extracurriculars and other factors when determining if a student will be accepted.
Families who attend private school vary widely, as well.
Private schools also have flexibility in their curriculum, meaning teachers have more flexibility in teaching style and speed of which lessons are taught. Many private school teachers are experts in the areas in which they teach or have industry experience. -
Do you offer bus transportation for families?
Unfortunately, Norfolk Collegiate does not provide transportation for students. However, many of our families participate in carpools. The school is happy to help connect current families who live near one another and may be interested in coordinating a carpool. -
Does tuition include lunch?
Yes, tuition includes lunch for all students attending Norfolk Collegiate. Tuition for our pre-Kindergarten 3 & 4 and kindergarten students also includes daily snacks.
For more information about Norfolk Collegiate's dining services, please click here. -
What expenses are not included in tuition?
Great question. Expenses that are not included in Norfolk Collegiate's tuition are- Non-refundable enrollment deposit for each student
- Textbooks for grades 6-12
- Materials fee for grades pre-K3
- Extended care (should your family choose to utilize the service)
- Learning Resource Program (should your student need the service)
The admissions team is happy to answer any questions you may have about these items. -
Does Norfolk Collegiate offer financial aid?
Yes. Norfolk Collegiate offers need-based financial aid to qualifying families seeking an independent school education. Financial assistance is available to many families, and we encourage families who may need assistance to apply.Families must apply for financial aid, and awards are determined annually. All financial assistance is provided in the form of grants, which do not need to be repaid. Families who receive financial aid must reapply each year.Norfolk Collegiate also offers a tuition discount for military families.
Learn more about affordability and financial aid. -
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! Norfolk Collegiate offers families three tuition payment options:- One-Payment Schedule: Pay the full tuition balance by June 1 and receive a 1% discount when payment is received before June 1. All other charges are due upon receipt of the monthly statement.
- Two-Payment Schedule: Pay tuition in two installments, with 50% due June 1 or June 15 and the remaining 50% due Dec. 1 or Dec. 15. Families select their preferred payment date through Blackbaud Tuition Management. There is no discount with this payment option. All other charges are due upon receipt of the monthly statement.
- 12-Month Payment Schedule: Pay tuition in 12 equal monthly installments, beginning June 1. Families may select the first, 15th or last day of the month as their payment date through Blackbaud Tuition Management. Tuition and all other charges are due upon receipt of the monthly statement.
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Does Norfolk Collegiate offer a military discount?
Yes. Norfolk Collegiate offers a one-time military discount for active-duty service members with a one-time, 10 percent tuition discount for students newly enrolled in Kindergarten through Grade 12. -
How does the financial aid process work?
Norfolk Collegiate is committed to making a Norfolk Collegiate education accessible to as many families as possible. To help us evaluate financial need fairly and consistently, we use a third-party service, Blackbaud Financial Aid Management, to conduct a need-based financial aid analysis.Families complete the financial aid application through Blackbaud Financial Aid Management, which reviews the information provided and generates a report for the school. The Norfolk Collegiate Financial Aid Committee, comprised of school administrators, reviews the third-party report and makes financial aid award decisions based on demonstrated financial need and the school’s available resources. -
When is the financial aid application deadline?
Families should submit their financial aid application by Jan. 1 to be considered for priority admission. -
Do families need to reapply for financial aid each year?
Yes. Families must submit a new financial aid application each year they wish to be considered for need-based financial aid. Financial aid awards are reviewed annually based on the family’s current financial circumstances and Norfolk Collegiate’s available resources. -
What is the Carolton Oak Scholarship?
The Norfolk Collegiate Carolton Oak Scholarship recognizes outstanding students who demonstrate academic promise, character, initiative and a commitment to making a difference in their school community.Scholarship details:- Two scholarships are awarded each year.
- Awards are up to $15,000 per year.
- Scholarships are available to incoming ninth-grade students.
- Students must be first-time applicants to Norfolk Collegiate.
- The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, provided the student meets the requirements of the program.
Ideal candidates demonstrate:- Strong academic potential
- Character and initiative
- Leadership
- A willingness to contribute to the school community
- Enthusiastic participation in areas such as the arts, athletics, service, citizenship and extracurricular activities
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Who is eligible for financial aid?
Financial aid is available beginning in Kindergarten to families who demonstrate financial need and meet Norfolk Collegiate’s admission and enrollment requirements.Families interested in financial aid must complete the required application through Blackbaud Financial Aid Management. Financial aid is considered separately from the admission process and does not guarantee admission or an award. Awards are determined by the Financial Aid Committee based on demonstrated financial need and Norfolk Collegiate’s available resources. -
What happens if my family’s financial circumstances change during the school year?
We understand that financial circumstances can change unexpectedly. Norfolk Collegiate does its best to work with families when significant changes arise during the school year. Families experiencing a change in circumstances are encouraged to contact the school’s financial aid office to discuss their situation.
Academics: FAQs
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What grades does Norfolk Collegiate offer?
Norfolk Collegiate is a PreK3–Grade 12 independent school, providing a continuous educational experience that grows with students from their earliest years through graduation.Throughout their journey, students develop as critical thinkers, doers and explorers while growing into the qualities of a Portrait of an Oak — becoming responsible, engaged and joyful learners who know themselves, contribute to their communities and are prepared to make a difference. -
Do you have an Honor Code?
Yes! Honor is an important part of the Norfolk Collegiate experience. Our Honor Code helps foster a culture of trust, responsibility and integrity, with students taking ownership of the standards that guide our community.The Honor Code is incorporated throughout the school, from pre-K3 through Grade 12. Students begin formally signing the Honor Code in fourth grade.It states:“I will not cheat, lie, steal, deceive or plagiarize. I am further aware that, as a member of this community, I am expected to report violations of this Code as I know them to occur.”The Honor Code is introduced and discussed with students at the beginning of each school year and revisited throughout the year. In the middle and upper school, an Honor Council made up of students and faculty advisors helps uphold the principles of the Honor Code and gives students an active role in maintaining the integrity of their community.Why is this important? At Norfolk Collegiate, we believe character and academic integrity are developed through practice. The Honor Code gives students a shared set of expectations and opportunities to make responsible choices, advocate for what is right and take ownership of their community. -
What is the academic curriculum like at Norfolk Collegiate?
Norfolk Collegiate offers a challenging, engaging and developmentally appropriate curriculum from PreK3 through Grade 12. Our academic program is designed to build strong foundational skills while encouraging students to think critically, explore their interests, ask questions and apply what they learn in meaningful ways.As students progress through the divisions, they are increasingly challenged to become independent thinkers, confident communicators and active problem-solvers. Experiential learning, collaboration and opportunities to pursue individual interests are woven throughout the curriculum.Our academic experience reflects the qualities of a Portrait of an Oak — students are known, challenged and supported as they grow into critical thinkers, doers and explorers. -
How does Norfolk Collegiate challenge students academically?
Norfolk Collegiate challenges students to think deeply, ask questions, solve problems and apply what they learn beyond the classroom. Teachers know their students well and provide opportunities for them to stretch their skills, explore their interests and take increasing ownership of their learning.As students progress through the school, academic opportunities expand to include honors and Advanced Placement courses, AP Capstone, independent research, experiential learning and Oak Experience opportunities, including internships. Students are encouraged to pursue meaningful challenges while receiving the support they need to grow with confidence.This approach reflects our commitment to developing critical thinkers, doers and explorers and to helping every student grow as a Portrait of an Oak. -
How much homework should my student expect?
That's a great question!
To encourage healthy reading habits, all lower school students are expected to read or be read to 20 minutes each day. Additionally, kindergarten students are expected to have an additional 10 minutes of homework a day and increasing 5 minutes by grade.
Middle school students should expect to spend no more than 1 hour a night focused working on homework and studying to prepare for their classes, dependent on their grade.
Upper school students should expect to spend at least 2.5 hours a night of time focused working on homework and studying to prepare for their classes. -
What if my student needs academic support?
Norfolk Collegiate’s Learning Resource Program (LRP) provides academic support services for students in Kindergarten through grade 12. Our learning specialists work closely with students, classroom teachers and families to identify individual learning needs, build on students’ strengths and develop strategies that help students reach their academic goals.The LRP offers a variety of individual and small-group support, including assistance with specific content areas, reading, study skills, organization, time management and other academic needs. For students with documented learning disabilities, learning specialists also collaborate with classroom teachers to facilitate appropriate classroom accommodations.We believe every student learns differently, and our goal is to provide the support students need to thrive academically.Contact our admissions team for more information about Norfolk Collegiate’s Learning Resource Program and how it may benefit your student. -
How does Collegiate support students who need additional academic help?
Norfolk Collegiate believes students learn best when they are known, supported and appropriately challenged. Teachers monitor student progress and work closely with students and families to identify areas where additional support may be helpful.Depending on a student’s needs, support may include extra help from teachers, targeted academic support and resources through our Learning Resource Center. Our learning support team works collaboratively with teachers and families to help students develop effective strategies and strengthen the skills they need to be successful.Our goal is to provide the right support at the right time while helping students build the confidence, skills and independence they need to thrive as learners. -
How are students prepared for college?
Norfolk Collegiate prepares students for college by building the knowledge, skills, confidence and independence they need to succeed beyond high school. Students are challenged academically while developing critical thinking, communication, collaboration, time management and self-advocacy skills.In the upper school, students have opportunities to pursue honors and Advanced Placement courses, AP Capstone, independent research, internships and Oak Experience programs that encourage them to explore their interests and apply their learning in meaningful ways.College counseling also helps students navigate the college search and application process, from identifying schools that align with their interests and goals to preparing applications and making informed decisions about their next steps.Ultimately, our goal is to graduate critical thinkers, doers and explorers who are prepared not only for college, but for the opportunities and challenges that come after it. -
How does Norfolk Collegiate prepare students for life beyond college?
Norfolk Collegiate believes education should prepare students not only for college, but for a meaningful life beyond the classroom. Throughout their experience, students are encouraged to become curious, adaptable and confident individuals who can think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively and contribute to their communities.Through experiential learning, service, internships, leadership opportunities, the arts, athletics and Oak Experience programs, students have opportunities to discover their interests, take initiative and apply their learning in the real world.Our Portrait of an Oak reflects this broader purpose: developing students who are critical thinkers, doers and explorers with the character, curiosity and confidence to navigate what comes next and make a positive difference in the world around them.
Athletics & Arts: FAQs
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What sports are offered?
Norfolk Collegiate offers the following sports to our middle and upper school students:- Girls and boys tennis
- Girls and boys lacrosse
- Girls and boys soccer
- Girls and boys basketball
- Cheerleading
- Co-ed sailing
- Co-ed cross country
- Co-ed swimming
- Golf
- Girls Field Hockey
- Volleyball
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What grades can participate in athletics at Norfolk Collegiate?
Students in grades 6–12 can participate in athletics at Norfolk Collegiate. Opportunities vary by sport and level:- Middle school: Middle school teams are introductory and generally open to students who wish to participate, within reasonable limits of team size and practicality. The focus is on learning skills, building confidence and developing a love of competition.
- Junior varsity (JV): JV teams primarily include students in grades 9–10 and serve as a transitional level between middle school and varsity athletics. In some circumstances, younger students may participate with approval from the Athletic Department.
- Varsity: Varsity teams are designed to provide the highest level of competition. Rosters may be limited, and selection is based on individual skill, maturity and the ability to contribute to the team's success. Sixth- and seventh-grade students are not eligible for varsity athletics. Eighth-grade students may be considered for varsity participation when the coach, family and athletic director agree that it is an appropriate opportunity for the student.
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Can students participate in multiple sports?
Absolutely! Many of Norfolk Collegiate’s middle and upper school students participate in more than one sport throughout the school year. Because of the way our schedule is structured, students can participate in clubs during the school day and then participate in one to three team sports throughout the year.And athletics are just one part of the experience. Many students also participate in concert choir, play a musical instrument or perform in the school’s fall play or spring musical.
At Norfolk Collegiate, students don’t have to choose just one passion — they have opportunities to explore athletics, arts, clubs and more throughout their school experience. -
What athletic leadership opportunities are available?
At Norfolk Collegiate, student-athletes have opportunities to lead both on and off the field. Through the Student-Athlete Task Force, representatives from varsity programs in grades 9–12 work together to help shape the culture of sportsmanship, leadership and school spirit across our athletic programs.Task force members participate in leadership development opportunities, including a leadership boot camp and a Positive Coaching Alliance workshop focused on character, sportsmanship and leadership. Throughout the school year, students explore leadership styles, personal accountability and the legacy they want to leave while working with athletic administrators and their peers to identify ways to strengthen Norfolk Collegiate athletics.
Through these experiences, student-athletes develop the confidence and skills to lead their teams, contribute to their school community and make a lasting impact. -
What theater opportunities are available?
Norfolk Collegiate’s Hackney Theater offers opportunities for lower, middle and upper school students to get involved onstage, backstage and behind the scenes. Whether a student loves performing, designing, building or working with technology, there’s a place to contribute.
Upper school students can participate in Theater Production classes, where they design and build sets for middle and upper school productions. Our Costume and Design class gives students the opportunity to learn sewing and create costumes for productions. Students also take the lead in operating lights and sound, serving as stage hands and supporting other technical aspects of each production.Norfolk Collegiate’s theatrical productions are largely student-run, giving students meaningful hands-on experience and the opportunity to take ownership of the creative and technical process.For students interested in performing, auditions are typically held about two months before each production. Following callbacks, the cast is announced and rehearsals begin. -
How often do you students perform onstage?
Norfolk Collegiate's students take to the stage multiple times throughout the school year.
Lower school students host the following performances:- Winter and spring band and strings concert
- Grandparents & Special Friends Day Program
- Pre-K Holiday Program
- K&1 Musical
- Grade 2&3 Musical
- Evening of the Arts
- Grade 4&5 Musical
- Pre-K Celebration
Middle School Students host the following performances:- Band, Strings & Chorus Holiday Concert
- Evening of the Arts
- Middle School Musical
- Band, Strings & Chorus Spring Concert
Upper School Students host the following performances:- Fall Play
- Band, Strings & Chorus Holiday Concert
- Evening of the Arts
- Upper School Musical
- Band, Strings & Chorus Spring Concert
Student Life: FAQs
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Do students have recess?
Yes, students in pre-K3 through grade 5 have recess daily, in addition to have having physical education daily. -
How do students get involved in the school community?
How do students get involved in the school community?There are many ways for students to get connected and become part of the Norfolk Collegiate community — from the moment they first visit campus through their years as a Mighty Oak.When a prospective student tours Norfolk Collegiate, they are paired with a Carolton Oak Ambassador, a current student who helps them get to know the school, meet classmates and feel more comfortable during the transition to Norfolk Collegiate. The admissions team also hosts events throughout the year to welcome new students and families and provide opportunities to connect with one another and with current members of the school community.Once students are part of the school, they have many opportunities to build friendships and find their place. Middle and upper school advisories provide a smaller community within the larger school, while upper school students can explore their interests through the annual Club Fair. Middle school students have choice time, giving them opportunities to connect with peers through shared interests and activities.Our counselors also work intentionally to help students build meaningful peer connections, including making sure students have opportunities to sit with and get to know classmates during lunch.At Norfolk Collegiate, we believe every student should feel known, connected and included — and we provide many opportunities for students to find their people and become an active part of the school community. -
What leadership opportunities are available?
Leadership opportunities flourish for students at Norfolk Collegiate! Starting from our youngest Oaks to our most rooted seniors, Norfolk Collegiate students are provided a plethora of opportunities to thrive as leaders, should they choose to do so.
Upper School:- Honor Council
- National English Honor Society
- National Honor Society
- Student Government Association
- Junior and Senior Class Officers
- Student-Athlete Task Force
Middle School:- Community and Belonging Student Advisory
- Student Government Association
- Honor Council
- National Junior Honor Society
- Student Government Association
- Class Representatives
- Safety Patrol
- Oak Ambassadors
Daily Life: FAQs
List of 5 frequently asked questions.
