There is financial aid available for attending private high schools, and the earlier you get started applying for it, the better your chances of being awarded aid. Most schools have January or February application deadlines, so starting your search and applications in December may be too late if you want first crack at what's available. However, getting a late start doesn't mean you're destined to end up empty-handed!

After establishing your child's needs and abilities, you should have a list of schools that seem to be the most ideal fit for you and your child. Gather as much information as you can and make sure you look into the following:
 

• Admission and financial aid deadlines
• Tuition and fees for each school
• Any special deals, such as discounted rates for children of alumni or for having more than one child enrolled.
• Grants, scholarships or other aid awarded by the schools

Action Items
Throughout the year, there are a few things to focus on, especially if you plan to apply to schools that require admission testing or offer financial aid.

Early Fall

Pull out your calendar
Check deadlines and application requirements, because they aren't always the same. Some schools only enroll at a certain time of year; others accept students all-year long. You may need to apply for financial aid at the same time.

Exercise your child's brain
Start having your child prep for any standardized tests the schools will require and make sure he or she takes it as soon as possible. Most tests are scheduled on Saturdays throughout the school year, but don't wait so long that all the available dates before the application deadline go by.

Get moving
Visit campuses and speak to school officials about any scholarships and financial aid they may offer. Make sure you take your child with — let him or her be an active part of the tour and encourage them to ask questions.

Late Fall/Early Winter

Get your ducks in a row
Start gathering the information that most schools will require as part of the application process: past standardized test results, recent transcripts, recommendation letters, writing samples, portfolios and any special testing that is required.

Book a Saturday stay
If you need to take a standardized test such as the SSAT or the ISEE, now is the time to do it so that scores can be reported in time for the admission deadline. Test dates usually start in November.

Do the math
Sign up with the SSS (School and Student Service for Financial Aid) if the schools you're applying to accept financial aid applications through it. This will allow you to submit your Parents' Financial Statement (PFS) online and make applying for financial aid much easier.

Put pen to paper
If you've gathered everything you need for your applications, get them finished and submitted by no later than mid-December.

Get your bags ready
If you've been accepted at a school already and plan to transfer during the school year, get everything ready to go and tie up any loose ends with your current school.

Spring

Crunch the numbers
Evaluate any financial aid you've been offered, along with any awards or scholarships. Different schools may have different offers. Determine which school offers the best deal after you figure in tuition and fees.

Decision time
Decide which school you'll attend. By now, you should know which schools have accepted you. If you need to visit the schools again or ask more questions, do so — but don't take too long to make a decision.

Finish up
Fill out any additional paperwork the school may require and make sure you have it turned in by the applicable deadlines. Encourage your child to continue putting forth their best effort in school.

Hit the bank
If you need to apply for loans to pay for school, now's the time to find a private lender and see what you need to do.

 Summer

What's up, Doc?
Make sure your child's health requirements are up to date, including immunizations, physicals, and any doctor's order the school may need to administer prescription medications. Submit any required documentation to the school for their records.

Encourage productivity
Don't let your child turn into a sloth over the summer. Encourage your child to read books, get a job, and help out around the house. Making sure their brains are well-exercised as well as their bodies will keep them ready for school.

Pay the bill
Pay any required tuition payments that may be due before school starts. If you need to, see if the school offers payment plans to help ease the burden of having to pay full tuition all at once.