Georgia Public School Choice Options

In addition to charter schools, Georgia offers families several public school choice options to transfer within the traditional public school system through various programs.

Intra-District Transfers (House Bill 251)

What It Allows: Parents may request transfer to another public school within their home district if the receiving school has enrollment below 90% capacity.

Application Timing: Applications are typically accepted November through May.

Transportation: Parents are responsible for transportation.

Athletic Eligibility: School choice transfers are subject to GHSA athletic eligibility rules (one calendar year ineligibility if not related to a change of residence).

Cost: Free (no tuition charges)

Inter-District Transfers

What It Allows: Georgia has a voluntary inter-district open enrollment policy allowing students to transfer to schools outside their assigned district with the mutual agreement of both sending and receiving districts.

How It Works: Policies vary by district. Contact both your home district and the receiving district for specific procedures and availability.

Cost: Free (no tuition charges)

Magnet Schools

What They Offer: Some Georgia school districts operate magnet or theme-based schools (e.g., STEM academies, performing arts programs) that draw students from diverse backgrounds.

Admissions: Magnet schools typically have academic criteria (GPA, test scores) and are competitive. Policies vary by district.

Application Process: Contact your local school district for magnet school eligibility and application deadlines for this Georgia public school choice option.

Cost: Free (part of the public school system)