Membership

NAIS is the leading resource for independent school leaders. With various categories of membership and affiliation, you can find a level that allows your school or organization to benefit from our trusted guidance, research and data, global network, and leading voice.

Benefits of Joining

When your school joins NAIS, every staff and faculty member—from teachers to trustees—gains access to NAIS benefits throughout the course of one school year (July 1-June 30).

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Application

Ready to join? Complete our online application process.

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School Membership Options

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Full Membership
- Benefits
  - Full access to all NAIS benefits
- Criteria
  - Meets all membership criteria
- Dues
  - $18.65 per K-13 student
  - $9.35 per student below K
  - (Min: $500; Max: $15,500)
Start the Application
Candidate Membership
- Benefits
  - Full access to all NAIS benefits
- Criteria
  - Meets all membership criteria but actively working toward accreditation by approved accrediting organization
- Dues
  - $18.65 per K-13 student
  - $9.35 per student below K
  - (Min: $500; Max: $15,500)
Start the Application
Premium Subscription
- Benefits
  - Full access to all NAIS benefits
- Criteria
  - Does not meet all membership criteria
- Dues
  - $18.65 per K-13 student
  - $9.35 per student below K
  - (Min: $500; Max: $15,500)
Start the Application
Standard Subscription
- Benefits
  - Limited access to NAIS benefits
- Criteria
  - Does not meet all membership criteria
- Dues
  - $2,300
Compare Subscriptions

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Non-School Organizations

NAIS Community Catalyst Program

The NAIS Community Catalyst program is offered to organizations and nonprofits looking to increase their reach within the independent school community.
Learn How to Join

Frequently Asked Questions

NAIS member schools are K-13 private, independent schools of all types and sizes around the country. See a snapshot of our community.
Yes! For-profit schools may join as Premium or NAIS Subscribers.
To be eligible to be an NAIS Full Member, a school must demonstrate in the application process that it meets the following requirements:
- Has 501(c)(3) nonprofit status;
- Has been fully accredited by one of our approved organizations;
- Is governed by an independent board of trustees;
- Has demonstrated a commitment to diversity in compliance with state and federal law, as evident in all nondiscrimination policies for admission and hiring;
- Agrees in spirit with the NAIS Principles of Good Practice.
Learn more here.
NAIS Member and Premium Subscriber dues are based on student enrollment. Any student who is enrolled at your school should be counted as part of your school’s enrollment. This is regardless of whether the student attends full time or part time, or in person or online. NAIS Standard Subscriber dues are a flat annual rate.
NAIS sends out renewal invoices to all current members, Subscribers, and Community Catalysts in April. Initially, the invoice is mailed to the head of school or main company contact, and follow-up invoices are emailed during the summer. Membership and subscription terms end on June 30, and payments are due upon receipt.
Find more questions and answers here.

Maximize Your Membership

As an NAIS member school, you and your entire team have full access to resources that provide you with essential information and inspiration. Use this page to learn how to make the most of your membership.

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