GoCPS High School Choice Programs Explained
How It Works
Students are selected for open seats via a random computerized lottery system or a points-based system and can receive a single best offer in the Choice category. Use the School Search Tool to find location, eligibility, admission, priority preference, selection system, and tier information.
- 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.
- Some programs may have eligibility requirements, including minimum GPA, admissions testing, auditions, etc...
- Priority preferences (sibling, staff, proximity) may apply. Learn more and check the school profile page for details.
- Assigned address tiers may apply.
- If your child is currently in 9th grade and looking to transfer to another school for the current school year, they will need to complete the GoCPS application and enroll during the designated enrollment windows. Your child will not be transferred without participating in the GoCPS application and selection process.
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. This will continue until the student graduates.
Program Groups
When looking to see what options are available for high school, one important thing to note is that you will be applying to programs and not to schools. Below is the category breakdown of all the different types of programs available on the GoCPS application. Make sure to find the programs that interest your student and are the best fit.
Agriculture & Horticulture
Students learn the science, business, and technology of plant and animal production through classroom and laboratory experiences. GoCPS application is required.
Business & Finance
Introduces students to financial planning, banking, insurance, international finance, entrepreneurship principles, and accounting practices. GoCPS application is required.
Career Academy
Offers intensified resources through hands-on experiences and the opportunity to visit local businesses and shadow business professionals in various career areas. GoCPS application is required.
Construction & Architecture
Covers various stages of a construction project, from idea to design to production through hands-on construction projects and skills mastery. GoCPS application is required.
Culinary & Hospitality
Strongly structured with reading, writing, math, and science, these programs teach students about managing a hotel, preparing menus, and providing exceptional customer service in the hotel and restaurant industries. GoCPS application is required.
Education & Training
Students gain knowledge about careers related to family and human services, learn fundamentals of current educational theories, along with hands-on training with children while preparing students for a degree in education. GoCPS application is required.
Fine & Performing Arts
Encourage students’ creative and artistic expression, and develop an interest in art, music, dance, and/or drama with some of the city’s premier arts institutions and artists, both in schools and throughout the city. GoCPS application is required.
General Education
This does not specialize in one particular area but offers a wide variety of core subjects including English/language arts, math, science, and social studies, and may include world languages, art, music, and physical education. Students living outside of the attendance boundary must submit a GoCPS application.
Health Sciences
Students learn about medical terminology and the body systems, in addition to how illnesses are prevented, treated, and managed for a myriad of healthcare fields. Students can earn certifications, make contacts, job shadow, and participate in internships. GoCPS application is required.
Honors/Scholars
These programs provide a challenging curriculum for academically advanced students. Many courses offered are at the honors or Advanced Placement level, and in some schools, students can take college credit-bearing coursework. GoCPS application is required.
Information Technology
Prepares students for occupations in computer operations and programming, software applications, web development, and computer repair/installation. Students can earn industry-honored certifications. GoCPS application is required.
International Baccalaureate
Develops inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring students to create a more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect through work with schools, governments, and international organizations. GoCPS application is required.
Law & Public Safety
Students are provided with college preparatory education and in-depth exposure to criminal justice, law enforcement, family law, forensic science, and more through real-life experience in courtrooms, law enforcement, and crime scene investigation. GoCPS application is required.
Manufacturing & Engineering
Prepares students for college and high-demand jobs in advanced manufacturing through STEM coursework. Students learn about designing, assembling, and packaging everyday items through state-of-the art technology. GoCPS application is required.
Media & Communication Arts
Provides an opportunity to learn about the array of new media forms. Students can apply their artistic talent as a producer, director, journalist, website designer, video game programmer, and multimedia artist or another path that’s right for them. GoCPS application is required.
OSD School Assignment Programs
Prepares all students with a variety of disabilities for postsecondary success by implementing equitable practices through the use of evidence-based practices and curricula, quality instruction, and equitable supports. GoCPS application is preferred but not required. OSD will help with placement.
Personal Care Services
Prepares students for the professional hair and beauty industry in state-of-the art cosmetology and barbering labs. Students participate in citywide events and can earn certifications and engage with professionals through site visits, job shadows, and internships. GoCPS application is required.
Service Leadership Academies
These unique four-year high schools prepare students for college and subsequent careers through leadership opportunities and cocurricular activities. GoCPS application is required. Learn more at Chicago Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC).
STEM and STEAM
Connects high school, college, and the world of work through dynamic partnerships and a new vision for college and career readiness. Students can graduate with industry certifications and up to two years of college credit, internships, and access to professional mentors. GoCPS application is required.
Transportation
A good fit for those interested in getting everyone and everything to the right place, on-time, and within budget. Students explore career options that support equipment and transportation systems, in the air and on land. GoCPS application is required.
World Language
Provide students with intensive instruction in a world language to acquire proficiency in the new language as well as develop cultural understanding and awareness. GoCPS application is required.
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