Mid-year Openings.
New ESA funding for the spring semester.For the first time, Iowa is opening a fall window for Education Savings Account (ESA) applications. Iowa families with K–12 students can apply from October 15 to November 15 for an estimated $4,000 per student toward spring tuition.
WHAT’S NEW THIS FALL
A second chance at ESA funding, just in time for spring.
Until now, Iowa families could apply for ESA funding only in the spring for the upcoming school year. This year, the state is adding a statewide fall window, allowing families to apply mid-year and use the funds at any participating non-public school for the spring semester. Rivermont has openings in grades K–12 for families looking to make the move in January. Apply to Rivermont and apply for ESA funding during the window, and your child can start the new year at a new school.
Who this is for
- Iowa families with students entering grades K–12
- Families new to Rivermont, enrolling full-time for spring 2027
- The fall window is separate from, not in addition to, ESA funding a family receives through the regular spring application season
- Preschool and Montessori families: please contact admissions about your options
WHY RIVERMONT
One school from age 2 through grade 12, built to prepare students for college.
Rivermont Collegiate is the only private, independent, non-sectarian college-preparatory school in the Iowa–Illinois Quad Cities, serving students from age 2 through 12th grade. Founded in 1884 and located on the historic Bettendorf Mansion campus, Rivermont pairs small classes and a rigorous academic program with a community that reflects the wider world.
100%
College & university acceptance
90%
Of alumni rate their academic preparation as excellent or very good – Rivermont alumni survey
3
2027 National Merit® Semifinalists
#1
Best high school for STEM in the Quad Cities and #2 in Iowa – Niche
$5.1 Million
In merit scholarships earned by the 24 graduates of the Class of 2026
1884
Year Rivermont was founded, with more than 140 years of preparing students for college
Age 2 through grade 12
Families can stay with one school from the preschool years through graduation, so students grow up with teachers who know them and a program that builds year over year.
College preparatory
Coursework at every grade level is designed with college in mind. Small classes mean students are challenged, supported, and ready for what comes next.
Independent and non-sectarian
As an independent school, Rivermont sets its own curriculum and high standards. We are non-sectarian, welcome families of every background, and are accredited by Cognia.
A diverse community
Rivermont ranks among the most diverse private schools in the country, bringing together day students from both sides of the river and boarding students from around the world.
WHY START MID-YEAR
One semester to see the difference.
A real start, not a trial run
Your child joins a full spring semester of classes, arts, and activities. It’s a natural time to start fresh and enough time to determine whether Rivermont is the right long-term fit.
Your seat for next year is held
Students who enroll in spring and choose to continue are guaranteed a seat for the 2027–28 school year. No fall reapplication and no waitlist.
Funding that works together
ESA funding, Rivermont’s income-based financial aid, and our sibling discount can all apply to the same tuition bill. The calculator below shows how they add up for your family.
Count 1 or 2 parents/guardians plus your number of dependent children.
ESTIMATE YOUR COSTS
What would the spring semester cost your family?
Choose your state, number of students, household size, and income range. The estimate includes Rivermont financial aid and the sibling discount. For Iowa families, it also includes ESA funding. No personal information is collected.
This calculator provides a planning estimate of full-time K–12 enrollment for the spring 2027 semester. It is not a financial aid or ESA award. Estimates include Rivermont financial aid and the sibling discount. For Iowa families, the estimate also includes ESA funding, estimated at $4,000 per student and confirmed for each family through the state’s Odyssey portal. Iowa ESA funding is not available to Illinois residents. Rivermont financial aid is confirmed after you complete the financial aid application. All figures are estimates and subject to change. Contact admissions to confirm your family’s cost before making an enrollment decision.
HOW TO ENROLL
Three steps to a January start.
Step 1
Complete the enrollment application
Submit your Rivermont application by November 15, 2026, and we’ll waive the $50 application fee.
Step 2
Apply for financial aid
For the first time, Rivermont is offering spring semester financial aid to Iowa and Illinois families. To be considered, complete the financial aid application through FACTS.
Step 3
Apply for ESA funds
Apply through Iowa’s Odyssey portal during the fall window. ESA funding is optional, but Iowa families who apply for financial aid must also apply for ESA.
QUESTIONS FAMILIES ASK
Before you decide
What is the ESA program?
Iowa’s Education Savings Account program provides state funds families can use for tuition and other educational expenses at participating non-public schools. The spring application window (April 16 – June 30, 2026) offered $8,148 for the full year, split into two semesters. New families or those who missed the spring window can now apply for second-semester ESA funds from October 15 – November 15, 2026. Mid-year funding is approximately $4,000 per student.
Is my child guaranteed a seat next year?
Yes. Students who enroll for spring 2027 and choose to continue are guaranteed a seat for the 2027–28 school year. There’s no obligation beyond the spring semester.
Can we combine financial aid with ESA funding?
Yes. Rivermont’s income-based financial aid is calculated separately and can be combined with an ESA award and the sibling discount. If you apply for financial aid, you must also apply for ESA funding during the October 15–November 15 window.
Which grades have openings?
This offer is for full-time students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Contact admissions to check for openings in your child’s grade. Preschool and Montessori families should contact admissions directly.
We live in Illinois. Can we still enroll for spring?
Yes. Rivermont welcomes Quad Cities families from both sides of the river. Contact admissions to learn about spring enrollment, tuition, and financial aid for families in Illinois.
Start the new year at Rivermont.
Mid-year openings are available. Save the $50 Rivermont application fee by enrolling by November 15, 2026. The Iowa ESA window runs from October 15 to November 15, 2026.