Colorado Open Enrollment

How Does Colorado Open Enrollment Work: Families can apply to transfer their children to any public school in Colorado, regardless of where they live, provided the receiving school or district has available space. This is one of the most common forms of school choice in Colorado.

Key Benefits:

• Access to schools with specialized programs, different curricula, or preferred teaching approaches
• No need to relocate to attend a different district’s schools
• Can choose schools closer to parent workplaces or childcare arrangements
• Ability to avoid overcrowded or underperforming neighborhood schools

Application Process:

• Round 1 (Lottery Window): Typically November to January (e.g., Nov 1 – Jan 15) for the following school year
• Round 2 (First-Come, First-Served): Usually starts late January and runs indefinitely for remaining seats
• Key Consideration: Missing the Round 1 window significantly reduces your chance of getting into popular schools

Space Availability: Colorado open enrollment does not guarantee a spot in another school. It is based entirely on “space available.” Popular schools often have long waitlists.

Can Schools Deny Applications? Schools can only deny open enrollment applications for specific reasons, such as lack of space or if the student has been expelled. They cannot deny based on academic ability or disability.

Cost: Free. Public schools cannot charge application fees or tuition for open enrollment transfers.

Transportation: Families are typically responsible for transportation to out-of-district schools. The receiving district is not required to provide busing for transfer students.