A family that recently moved to Lansing found themselves overwhelmed by the private school admission process. In Korea, students simply attend the assigned school, but here, they must fill out an application, go through an interview, and even obtain recommendation letters, which can be quite unfamiliar. The application forms vary by school, and some require essays or interviews, which can be daunting for newcomers. The first question that arises is: which school should we start looking into? From my long observation of the local market, I believe the best approach is to tackle these questions one at a time in order.

Among Korean parents in the Lansing area, Lansing Catholic High School has long been a well-known option. It is a private high school for grades 9 through 12, offering a curriculum designed to prepare students for college. The next question is likely about tuition. The annual tuition is around $12,350 (according to official school data). So, how are the academic results? The average ACT score is 28 (based on Niche data), which ranks among the top in comparison to the overall average in Michigan. The school has 443 students, with a student-to-teacher ratio of about 15 to 1. The school's website provides information about the curriculum and the career paths of graduates, which can be helpful to review before applying.

What about families who find the tuition burdensome? This question often comes up. According to school data, 80% of families that applied for financial aid actually received support, with an average aid amount of around $5,500. Financial aid applications are typically separate from the admission application, so it's important not to miss the application deadlines. These deadlines can vary from year to year, so it's advisable to check directly with the school's admissions office. Another common question is about preparing for interviews and recommendation letters. If you ask teachers from your current church or previous school for recommendations in advance, you won't have to rush during the application period. Another frequent question is whether private or public schools are better. The answer varies by family. The East Lansing Public School District is known for its good reputation, so many families compare the commuting distance and tuition costs. Sites like Niche and GreatSchools can serve as reference materials, but it's best to confirm the actual assigned school and curriculum directly with the school.

The next question is about housing. Do you need to live near the school? Since Lansing Catholic is a private school, it does not belong to a specific school district, and students can commute from various areas around Lansing. However, many families tend to settle in the East Lansing area for convenience. The average home value in East Lansing is around $282,759 (according to Zillow 2026 data, a 2.4% increase from the previous year). This area is home to Michigan State University, so rental demand is relatively steady. When comparing rental prices and home sales, families expecting to stay for more than three years often find purchasing a home to be more advantageous. In addition to East Lansing, nearby areas like Okemos and Haslett are also frequently considered, so it's wise to look at several options based on commuting distance and local amenities.

Finally, a common question is about property taxes. In Michigan, tax rates vary by county, and the actual burden can differ between existing residents and new buyers. If you base your budget on the tax rate from your previous state, you may encounter discrepancies, so it's better to check the property tax details of actual listings. Insurance rates also vary by region, so it's advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance companies before finalizing a contract. It's also beneficial to consult with mortgage advisors. Since different lenders have varying pre-approval conditions and interest rates, it's advantageous to compare quotes from several places.

School districts and assigned schools can change frequently based on your address, so be sure to verify before purchasing. This article is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult with professionals before making any admissions or contractual decisions.