How to Get Into a Charter School? What Your Child Has to Do

There are many advantages to sending your child to a charter school! Smaller class sizes mean more individualized attention for your child, and the curriculum is often more advanced. But how do you enroll your child in a charter school? Below is everything you need to know about how to get into a charter school. Read on to get all your questions answered!

A Guide on How to Get Into a Charter School

Who is accepted?

Any child can be accepted in a charter school. By law, children cannot be excluded from enrollment based on race, disability, gender, national origin, religion, ancestry, intellectual ability, athletic ability, or any educational achievements. 

However, if the number of students who apply is greater than the number of open seats in the school, children will be chosen at random. For this reason, it is necessary to enroll your child by the application deadline, or they will be put at the bottom of the waitlist.

In addition, keep in mind that preference may be given to returning students, siblings of enrolled students, and students living in the nearby community school district. 

Does your child have to take an entrance exam?

No, children should are not required to take an entrance exam to determine enrollment. 

In short, enrollment works very similarly to public school enrollment. Fill out the paperwork, and then you will be contacted with confirmation of your child’s registration if there is capacity. 

Do you have to pay tuition?

In short, no. Charters schools are funded by the government, fundraisers, and grants. Therefore, you are not required to pay any amount of tuition to enroll your child in a charter school.

The only schools you will have to pay tuition to enroll in are private schools. Charter schools, however, are still regulated by the government, even if they are independently run. 

How do you enroll?

The first step to enrolling your child entails filling out the application. You can often find the enrollment application online or contact the school for an application. 

Next, send it in during the open enrollment period. While this period will vary from school to school, it typically happens around December. 

If you missed the open enrollment period, contact the charter school, and ask them about their availability. If they are at full capacity, your child will most likely be put on a waitlist. However, if there is an open spot, it’s likely your child can start in just a few days. 

Enroll in a Leading Charter School Near You!

So how do you get into a charter school? You find a quality school near you and fill out the application.

Academies of Math and Science is recognized as one of the best charter schools in Arizona. With a hands-on STEM program integrated into each classroom, children are taught to love learning. Moreover, the advanced curriculum helps children reach academic achievements beyond their grade level, preparing them for high school and college. 

To enroll, fill out an application between the open enrollment period, usually around November-December. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-serve basis. If the number of applications exceeds capacity, students will be chosen in a randomized lottery held by the district, typically at the end of January. 

Find a location near you and start the enrollment process!