School Selection & Enrollment
How to choose and apply to the right Philadelphia school
The Philadelphia School District has more than 200 schools — and you have the right to apply to schools outside your neighborhood. This guide explains how the system works, how to research your options, and how to submit a competitive application.
Practical next steps
Understand the types of schools available to you
(1) Neighborhood schools — assigned by address. (2) Magnet/selective schools — citywide application, may require auditions or test scores. (3) Charter schools — independently operated, open enrollment by lottery. (4) CTE high schools — career-focused programs in healthcare, tech, business, and more.
Research schools at philasd.org
The School District's website has a school finder tool. Filter by type, grade level, and programs. Read each school's profile including Special Education services.
Use the GreatPhillySchools tool for deeper research
GreatPhillySchools.org has detailed profiles of every school in the city — often more current than the District's official site.
Visit schools in person before deciding
School websites don't tell you what a school feels like. Schedule a tour. Talk to current students and families.
Know the application windows
For 2027–28, District school selection opens October 5, 2026 and closes November 24, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern. Check philasd.org/studentplacement/school-selection/ for the current cycle. Participating Apply Philly Charter schools publish a January 15, 2027 deadline; other charters and private schools have their own timelines.
Submit your application through the official route
For District selection, start at philasd.org/studentplacement/school-selection/. Follow the District or non-District student instructions and rank up to five schools/programs in genuine preference order. For school-specific details, open the High School Navigator from the Student Navigator or main navigation.
Understand selective admission requirements
Central, Masterman, Girls' High, and SLA have selective admissions. Central/Masterman use test scores and grades. SLA uses an interview. Arts schools require auditions or portfolios.
Know your right to attend your neighborhood school
Even if you don't get into any choice schools, you have an absolute right to attend your assigned neighborhood school.
Submit enrollment paperwork by the deadline
Once accepted, complete and return the enrollment packet. You'll typically need proof of address, immunization records, and a birth certificate.
Resource starting points
- PSD School Selection Portal
Official School District application for choice schools.
- GreatPhillySchools
Detailed profiles of every school in Philadelphia.
Organizations featured in this guide
- School District of Philadelphia — Student Placement
Official school selection applications, enrollment help, and student placement services.
- Great Philly Schools
Independent research tool with detailed profiles, climate survey data, and program info for every Philadelphia school.
- Philadelphia Education Fund
Provides school navigation support and advocacy for families making school selection decisions.
- Philadelphia Home and School Council
Parent advocacy organization that helps families navigate school selection and enrollment.
Helpful things to know
The timeline starts in October
School selection opens in October for the following September. Start researching in 8th grade spring.
Attend every open house you can
Open houses are your best chance to meet teachers and talk to current students.
Common questions
What if I don't get into any choice schools?
You'll be assigned to your neighborhood school. You can still apply again for the following year or transfer during the year.
What documents do I need to enroll?
Proof of Philadelphia residence, birth certificate or passport, immunization records, and for students with IEPs, recent IEP documentation.