Frequently Asked Questions

The School Selection Process replaces the application period formerly known as the Lottery. Students apply for magnet schools, magnet programs, middle and junior high schools and high schools for the next school year during the School Selection Process.

The School Selection Process for the 2026-27 school year is open Oct. 1-Nov. 30, 2025. New this year, students have the first opportunity to select their school, Oct. 1-31, before the process opens to families, Nov. 1-30.

Applications for the School Selection Process are submitted through Focus, CPS’ Student Information System (SIS). View quick guides and video instructions: Focus - Cincinnati Public Schools

Sibling priority applies during the School Selection Process. You will be able to select sibling priority in Focus, and don’t need to complete a separate application. 

Middle schools receive students from specific elementary schools based on their corridor, while you must enter the School Selection Process to select a junior high school. You may also select a middle school in your corridor during the School Selection Process. 

All in-district students in Grade 6 currently enrolled at a CPS Montessori elementary school, and interested in attending either Clark Montessori High School or James N. Gamble Montessori High School will automatically be entered into the School Selection Process based on their home address. For more information about Montessori High School Acceptance, click here. 

There are diverse options available to you based on the corridor where you live: East, Central or West. You can review the school options in each corridor here. 

There are additional eligibility requirements for the School for Creative and Performing Arts (grades 4-12), Spencer Center for Gifted and Exceptional Students and Walnut Hills High School. As such, you may not select these schools during the School Selection Process.

Contact the Customer Care Center if interested in applying to Woodford Academy. 

For more information on school eligibility requirements, please contact the school of interest. 

Students in preschool through 12th grade who live outside the boundaries of the Cincinnati Public School District may apply for admission to CPS schools during the annual Open Enrollment Application period. Applications for the 2026-27 school year are accepted Feb. 1-28, 2026.