Who is eligible for financial aid?
Anyone who needs financial support to participate in Squash Collective group programs. Aid is based primarily on household income and number of dependents, but we also consider special circumstances (e.g., medical bills, job loss, supporting family members, transportation barriers).
What is the sliding-scale system?
We use a tiered system connected to the Area Median Income (AMI) for Minneapolis–St. Paul. Your tier determines what percentage of the standard program cost you pay. The system is designed to be fair, consistent, and predictable — while still allowing for case-by-case adjustments based on individual needs.
What information do I need to provide when applying?
The application asks for basic household and income information, plus a brief explanation of any circumstances that affect your ability to pay. You can choose whether to upload documentation; if you prefer not to, we may request it during your short interview.
Is the application confidential?
Yes. Your financial information is kept strictly confidential and is only reviewed by the two directors responsible for financial aid decisions. Instructors, volunteers, and other participants will not have access.
How long does the application take, and when will I hear back?
The application is short and typically takes 5–10 minutes. Most applicants receive a decision within 5 business days. If we need more information, we’ll contact you directly.
How do the full scholarships work?
We'll be accepting applications for full scholarships for qualified elementary, middle school, and high school players when we begin our junior program in 2026.
We based our scale on a blend of Area Median Income data, local cost-of-living benchmarks, and practices used by community organizations and YMCAs in the Twin Cities area. We have divided income below the local AMI into quintiles, and for 2025 we are accepting applications from everyone in the third quintile or below (i.e. the most in need). Our method:
1. Start with five local AMI bands used in housing, education, and youth development.
2. Adjust tiers so they reflect actual program costs and what families in the Twin Cities typically pay for sports and after-school activities.
3. Keep it simple, transparent, and flexible, with interviews to catch nuances that numbers can’t.
We reviewed multiple models (including nonprofits that don’t publish their tables) and chose a version that is equitable, evidence-based, and easy to understand. If you ever want to know exactly how the math works, just ask and we can walk you through it.
