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Choice Programs K-8

Elementary school Choice programs provide an opportunity to attend a school or program outside of your assigned attendance area school. A GoCPS application must be submitted to be considered for these programs.

How It Works

Students are selected for open seats via a random computerized lottery and can receive a single best offer in the Choice category.

  • Each applicant can apply for up to 20 programs on the application and must rank each program in the order of preference from most desired (1) to least desired.
  • Testing is not required.
  • Priority preferences (sibling, staff, proximity) may apply. Learn more and check the school profile page for details.
  • Assigned address tiers may apply. Learn more and check the school profile page for details.
  • If your child is already enrolled in a Choice program and wants to transfer to another Choice program, a GoCPS application must be submitted during the application period for the new program. Your child will not be transferred without participating in the GoCPS application and selection process.

Group of smiling students

Types of Elementary School K-8 Choice Programs

Use the School Search Tool to find location and any eligibility information.

Magnet Schools

Specialize in one subject area, such as fine arts, world language, or technology. In most cases, magnet schools usually do not have a neighborhood attendance boundary. GoCPS application is required.

Magnet Cluster Schools

Specialize in one subject area, such as fine arts, world language, or technology. These programs usually have a neighborhood attendance boundary and accommodate neighborhood students first. Non-attendance area students must apply.

Open Enrollment Schools

General education program that does not specialize in one subject area. These programs have a neighborhood attendance boundary and accommodate neighborhood students first. Non-attendance area students must apply.

Dual Language Schools

General education program taught in multiple languages. They include one-way programs (only English Learner or EL students) and two way-programs (both EL and non-EL students). These programs have a neighborhood attendance boundary and accommodate neighborhood students first as long as they meet the language requirements. GoCPS Application required for non-attendance area students.

Guide to Dual Language Programs [ ENGLISH | SPANISH ]

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Search for Schools & Programs

The CPS School Search tool lets you filter, find, and compare GoCPS programs based on location, academic focus, and more. Each school’s profile page includes eligibility and selection criteria for all programs offered. Need help? View our Search Tips.

Elementary Charter Schools

Charter schools are CPS elementary schools that are approved by the Chicago Board of Education and operated independently by Charter School organizations. Students are selected via lottery, and applications are managed directly by each charter school. Contact the charter school directly if you are interested in attending.

Automatic Enrollment

Once a student is enrolled in a Choice program, they are automatically re-enrolled in the following grade for the next school year.

Office of Access & Enrollment (OAE)

773-553-2060

gocps@cps.edu

Chicago Public Schools
42 W. Madison St, 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60602