Financial Assistance & Alternative Payment Policy

Our Core Belief:

The Columbus Saints believe that financial hardship should never be a barrier to participating in the marching arts. We work tirelessly to keep our fees low and provide flexible solutions to ensure every talented performer has a place on the field. This is why our organization offers our all-age, weekend only drum corps for a total fee of $1000 for the season ($200 fundraising requirement + $800 cash payment).

Times are challenging for everyone, and we are committed to working with you. In return, we ask for and need your absolute honesty. If you have the means to cover your tuition in full, we ask that you do so. If you need a bit of flexibility, we encourage you to utilize our extended payment plans before applying for full relief. We are all working to make this experience as affordable as possible and your honesty goes a long way.

For those who need extra support, we offer the following pathways to reduce or entirely eliminate your membership fees.

March DCI For Less

Scholarship Programs

Scholarships are strictly needs-based and designed to alleviate financial burdens in exchange for a commitment to the corps.

  • Partial Scholarships (25% – 75% Coverage): Covers a significant portion of the membership fee.
    • Requirements: Recipients are expected to actively participate in all standard corps fundraising activities and contribute to in-kind service projects (e.g., facility cleanup, kitchen duty, logistics).
  • Full Scholarships (100% Coverage): Covers the entire membership fee and fundraising fee. Reserved for individuals with the highest financial need.
    • Requirements: High-level in-kind service is required. Recipients must regularly assist with crucial operational tasks, such as working the merchandise booth, kitchen duty, storage organization days, and event setup/teardown.

To apply for a scholarship, please contact the executive director at lcarlton@columbussaints.org to schedule a private discussion regarding your financial needs and how we can best support you.

“March for Free” & Tuition Discount Pathways

Members can drastically reduce their tuition—or completely cover it—by providing valuable skills, recruitment, or volunteer time.

A. In-Kind Service & Skilled Trades

If you, a parent, or a partner possess a specific skill set, you can trade your expertise to offset tuition costs:

  • Skilled Trades: Constructing steel or wood carts/props for the front ensemble (blueprints/plans are provided by the corps), or providing certified vehicle repair and maintenance on corps vehicles.
  • Volunteer Staff Roles: A parent or partner can take on an ongoing, vital staff role that aligns with their professional experience. Eligible roles include:

B. Recruiting Discounts

Growing the Saints helps everyone. For every friend you recruit who contracts with the corps:

  • You receive $50 off your tuition.
  • Your friend receives $50 off their tuition.
  • Note: This discount stacks! Bring two friends, save $100, and so on.

C. Volunteering Credits

Earn direct credit toward your tuition by volunteering at camps, home shows, or on tour:

  • In-Town/Local Volunteering: $25 credit per day.
  • Out-of-Town/Tour Volunteering: $50 credit per day.

Extended Payment Plans

If you simply need more time to pay your tuition, you can request an Extended Payment Plan. This option lowers your monthly obligation and extends your deadlines until after the competitive season concludes.

  • Requirement: Utilizing this option requires a new, legally binding payment agreement that must be notarized to certify your understanding and commitment to the payment schedule.

March & Earn A College Scholarships

We have an agreement with Dr Virgil Goodwine, Director of Bands at Wilberforce University and the university music department for you earn up to $10K to attend their university. This reduces the cost to attend and earn a bachelors degree by up to 75% for many people.

DCI to HBCU Pipeline

Support the Mission: Become a Saints Angel

If you believe in keeping drum corps accessible and want to help us offset these operational costs, please consider supporting our general funds.