Last verified: October 2026
How do families apply for Diocesan Tuition Assistance in Cleveland?
Through their Catholic school: the diocese tells families to contact the school for DTA instructions, and awards are based on financial need. The diocese awarded nearly $3 million in DTA for 2025-26. Its most recent posted deadline was March 15, so plan on mid-March for 2027-28 and confirm the date with the school.
What are Angel Scholarships?
Tuition awards funded by the Angel Scholarship Fund, the state tax-credit SGO run by the Catholic Community Foundation with the diocese. Each school sets its own Angel application; the diocese reports nearly $8.1 million awarded for 2025-26 and that applications opened January 1, 2026 for the last cycle. Donors can direct a gift to one school and claim Ohio's $750 credit ($1,500 joint).
Which special Catholic scholarships can a Cleveland family apply for?
The Catholic Education Endowment Trust administers several: the Bishops' Scholarship for Excellence (up to $3,500 for high school or $1,200 for grades 6-8, with an essay and a FACTS application), the Geis Scholarship (up to $5,000 for refugee, immigrant or first-generation students at Cuyahoga County Catholic high schools), the John L. Patton Memorial Scholarship for children and grandchildren of service members, Fund-A-Dream ($2,500 for K-12 students with remaining need) and others. Emergency tuition help is available from November 1 to May 1 through the pastor or principal.
How does diocesan aid fit with the Cleveland Scholarship or EdChoice?
Diocesan schools are chartered, so a city family starts with the Cleveland Scholarship and a suburban family with EdChoice or Expansion. DTA, Angel Scholarships and parish aid then work on what is left; families are expected to apply for the aid their school regularly offers.
| Layer | Who decides | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Scholarship or EdChoice | DEW | Window open through June 30, 2027 |
| Diocesan Tuition Assistance | Diocese, via the school | Mid-March (March 15 last cycle) |
| Angel Scholarship | Each school | Opened January 1 last cycle |
| Special scholarships | Catholic Education Endowment Trust | March 15 last cycle |
| Emergency assistance | Pastor, principal or business manager | November 1 - May 1 |