Costs
The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is a public school funded through the Illinois General Assembly. There are no charges for tuition or room and board. The annual IMSA Student Fee for the 2007-08 Academic Year is based on a formula derived from the Federal Lunch Program and assesses the fee on a sliding scale depending on total family income and the number of members in the family. Fee waivers and/or reductions are available in cases of financial need.
As of fall 2007, IMSA is now requiring incoming sophomores to purchase a tablet computer of their choice that meets or exceeds certain specifications. IMSA has negotiated special pricing with specific vendors, and the costs vary depending on which tablet is selected by the student and their family. Arrangements will be made to help families with demonstrated need. Students who currently have a laptop need to make sure that it meets the requirements addressed on our website.
For further information on these costs and the required specifications, please see the IMSA One to One Computing Initiative site.
As in other schools, students do incur other expenses for personal needs and recreational opportunities. Additionally, families will incur some expenses for travel to and from the Academy. Limited funds are available to assist families with these expenses if necessary.
Fee Waiver Information: We are concerned that all students, regardless of their financial resources, have the opportunity to attend the Academy. If you, the applicant, qualify for reduced or free lunch, please request a school staff member to submit a written request for a fee waiver on official school letterhead and enclose it with your registration form or application.