Take the First Step Toward Becoming a World-Changer
Apply to Daystar Academy Today
Finding and deciding on the right school can feel overwhelming. With so many options in Chicago, you may be asking: How do I know which school is the best choice for my child’s academic journey? Wherever you’re coming from, and wherever you are in the process, we’re here to partner with you in discerning whether Daystar is the best fit for your family.
Apply to Daystar Academy Today
We’re so excited to get to know you. Begin your application at any time using our online portal.
Learn More About Daystar Academy
Deliberately Diverse, Deeply Christ-Centered
Please fill out the form below and our Admissions team will contact you and provide you with more information. You have the opportunity here to sign up for a tour, a shadow day, or to request more information.
Location
1550 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605
Use the entrance on South State.
Questions?
admissions@daystaracademy.org
(312) 791-0001
Come Visit Daystar Academy
Life-long learners and world-changers.
Prospective students are invited to join us for our upcoming PreK-High School Open House on Thursday, March 20, starting at 6:00 PM. Learn why more and more students and families are choosing Daystar Academy for an IB World School education that is Christ-centered, deliberately diverse, and located in the City of Chicago.
We’re excited to welcome you to our community!
Open House: PreK - High School
Date: Thursday, March 20
Time: 6:00 PM
RSVP using the form to the right.
Location
1550 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605
Use the entrance on South State.
Questions?
admissions@daystaracademy.org
(312) 791-0001
Why Daystar?
Holistic Education
We focus on your child’s academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth.
Intentionally Diverse Community
Our families come from a wide range of backgrounds, creating a vibrant learning environment.
All-Inclusive Tuition
No extra supply lists or hidden fees; everything from supplies to field trips is covered.
Accessible for All
We offer tuition adjustments based on income, opening our doors to families from across Chicago.
Faith-Based &
Values-Driven
Character development and service learning are woven into daily life.
Personalized Support
Small class sizes and dedicated staff ensure every student is known and supported.
Real-World Learning
Frequent excursions, overnight experiences, and international trips prepare students to thrive beyond the classroom.
The Admissions Process
Daystar’s admissions process is the starting point in building a warm, inclusive community. As you explore what makes Daystar unique, our aim is to ensure you have all the information you need. Families join us from all walks of life, each with different reasons for choosing Daystar Academy. Our admissions team is committed to giving you all the resources you need to make the right decision.
Experience
Our website is a great place to learn about what makes Daystar unique and how our holistic approach to education may be the right choice for your family. While the information on this website is helpful, we know that nothing compares to seeing Daystar in action. We invite you to witness the Daystar experience for yourself through an Open House, Personal tour, or a Classroom Visit.
ask
We understand that every family’s situation is unique, and you may have specific questions about how Daystar can support your student’s needs. Our admissions team is here to help. Simply click on the button to email us directly, and we’ll provide the information and guidance you need to move forward with confidence.
apply
You can begin your application at any time using our online portal. The form above gives you space to share details about your child, and once we receive it, our admissions team will contact you to discuss next steps.
For students applying to Grades 1–12, we ask for additional documents so we can fully understand how your child learns and where they thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Depending on your child’s age and grade, please submit:
End-of-Year Report Card / Progress Report
If your child has previously been in a classroom setting, this helps us see their academic progress and their teacher’s observations.
Standardized Test Scores
Providing the most recent test scores gives us insight into your child’s strengths and any challenges they may face.
Teacher & Principal Recommendations
These recommendations offer a more personal reflection of your child’s mindset and academic skills from those who know them best.
enroll
After we’ve thoroughly reviewed your application and the feedback from your student’s visit, our admissions team will email you an admissions decision within 7–10 days. Upon acceptance, you’ll also receive detailed information about tuition and financial aid options, as well as the necessary steps to ensure your child starts Daystar on the right foot. From finalizing paperwork to orientation, we’ll provide everything you need to help your family feel confident and prepared for this exciting new chapter.
Tuition
We believe in providing an excellent education for families across Chicago, which is why we offer income-based tuition adjustments to keep Daystar affordable and inclusive. 60% of our K–12 students receive financial aid.
Rates before adjustments
Preschool 5 Half-Day Program
$12,100
Preschool 5 Full-Day Program
$17,700
K-5th Grade
$17,700
6th-8th Grade
$19,100
9th-12th Grade
$21,600
All-inclusive tuition
As part of our commitment to equity and community, Daystar tuition covers the full cost of your child’s education. All they need to bring daily is a backpack, water bottle, lunch, and snack.
Tuition includes:
- All school supplies
- 10-15 learning excursions per year (kindergarten through high school)
- Technology fee
- Elective classes
- Overnight expeditions (middle and high school)
- International or domestic travel (high school)
Questions?
Our admissions team is here to answer any questions you have about tuition, and how to make a Daystar education work for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Daystar Academy determine if a family is eligible for adjusted tuition?
Daystar partners with FACTS, a third-party financial processor of Indexed Tuition applications for independent schools across the country. FACTS uses an “Estimated Family Contribution” (EFC) calculation that takes into account many of the factors that make up a family’s overall financial picture. Each application is evaluated in a fair, consistent, and confidential manner. Families qualify once their oldest child is in Kindergarten.
Is there a cap on available funds?
Daystar has a generous financial aid budget, but it is not unlimited. We work hard to maintain a 60/40 ratio of families who pay adjusted tuition and those who pay full tuition. This ensures an economically diverse learning community which benefits every student.
Do you offer payment plan options?
Yes. We offer a 10-month plan (July to April), 11-month plan (July to May), bi-annual plan (payments in July and January), and annual plan (full payment in July).
Are tuition adjustments available for students in all grades?
Priority for adjusted tuition is given to students starting at Daystar at the traditional entry points of kindergarten and 9th grade.
Could applying for Adjusted Tuition diminish the chances of my child being accepted to Daystar?
No. All families are welcome to apply for a tuition adjustment, and submitting an application through FACTS has no bearing on an applicant’s admissibility. However, as we work to maintain a sustainable budget, we may not be able to admit all students whose admission is contingent on an adjusted tuition rate.
