Connecticut Inter-District Open Enrollment

Under the Connecticut Inter-District Open Enrollment (Open Choice) Program, students can apply to attend public schools outside their home district. Participation depends on space and local agreements.

How It Works:

• Students from Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, and other participating urban districts can transfer to suburban schools
• Suburban students can transfer to urban districts (though this is less common)
• Transportation is provided free of charge by the program
• Admission is determined through a lottery system when demand exceeds capacity

Key Benefits:

• Access to schools in different communities with potentially different resources and programs
• Free transportation provided (though travel may be 1-2 hours each way)
• No income requirements—available to all eligible families
• No tuition or fees

Important Considerations:

• Long commute times (1-2 hours each way) may be challenging for families
• Placement not guaranteed—depends on available space in receiving districts
• Sibling preference given when applying to same district/school

Regional Programs:

• CREC Open Choice: Hartford area
• ACES Open Choice: New Haven area