The Free School (2026 Profile)

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The Free School

8 Elm St
Albany, NY 12202

Tel: (518) 434-3072

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Founded in 1969 by Mary Leue, the Albany Free School is the oldest inner-city independent alternative school in the United States.

The school based on freedom and democratic principles that was equally, if not more accessible to children of the poor.

We are a community far more than a school providing a safe, nurturing, open space where kids ages three through fourteen learn and community members can volunteer, educate and make use of the space for community offerings and special events.

Quick Facts (2026)

School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
Grades: Prekindergarten-8
Enrollment: 28 students
Yearly Tuition: $7,500
Acceptance rate: 75%
Average class size: 8 students
Application Deadline: None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update

School Overview

School Type

School with Special Program Emphasis

School Membership(s)School Assoc.

Other special emphasis association(s)
Other school association(s)

Religious Affiliation

Nonsectarian

Grades Offered

Grades Prekindergarten-8

Year Founded

1969

School Calendar

Last Day of School

Fri. Jun 26, 2026

Student Body

Total Students

28 students

Student Body Type

Co-ed

% Students of Color

61%

State avg.: 40%

Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers

4 teachers

Student-Teacher Ratio

7:1

National avg.:

% Faculty w/Advanced Degree

50%

Average Class Size

8 students

Classroom Dress Code

Casual

Comfortable clothes that can get a little dirty.

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline

None / Rolling

Yearly Tuition Cost

$7,500

View national tuition avg.

Tuition Notes

Tuition is sliding scale based on income ranging from $2,500 - $7,500 annually. Tuition is broken up into 10 monthly payments.

% on Financial Aid

60%

Average Financial Aid Grant

$200

Acceptance Rate

75%

National avg.: 82%

Admissions Director

Deirdre Kelly

Admissions Associate

Christine Berghala

Application URL

Online Application

Source: Verified school update

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does The Free School cost?

The Free School's tuition is approximately $7,500 for private students.

What is the acceptance rate of The Free School?

The acceptance rate of The Free School is 75%, which is equal to the national average of 75%.

When is the application deadline for The Free School?

The application deadline for The Free School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

In what neighborhood is The Free School located?

The Free School is located in the Mansion Area neighborhood of Albany, NY.

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Quick Facts (2026)

School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
Grades: Prekindergarten-8
Enrollment: 28 students
Yearly Tuition: $7,500
Acceptance rate: 75%
Average class size: 8 students
Application Deadline: None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Albany, NY is $10,743 for elementary schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).

The average acceptance rate in Albany, NY is 83% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).