Idaho Charter Schools

Idaho has a robust and growing charter school sector with over 70 public charter schools operating statewide. Charter schools are tuition-free public schools authorized and accountable to the state, not a school district.

What Are Charter Schools in Idaho? Charter schools are tuition-free public schools with flexibility in hiring, curriculum, and operations. They receive per-pupil state funding just like traditional public schools. However, charter schools do not receive local property tax dollars and do not charge tuition (with rare exceptions).

Current Landscape:

• Over 70 public charter schools operating statewide
• Idaho’s public charter schools consistently outperform state averages on state assessments across all student demographics, including economically disadvantaged students and minority students
• State has facilitated over $113 million in facility cost savings for charter schools through a moral obligation bond program, maximizing funds available for classroom instruction

Enrollment Model:

• Open to all students regardless of residence, race, religion, or special needs
• Lottery-based admissions when more students apply than seats are available
• Lotteries conducted in spring of each year for admission the following fall
• Lottery drawings are publicly conducted

Priority Preferences:

• Children of school founders and full-time staff (limited to 10% of enrollment)
• Siblings of currently enrolled students
• Students living within the school’s primary attendance area (varies by school)
• Remaining students placed on waiting list in lottery order and contacted if seats open during the school year

Tuition: $0 for Idaho residents. Charter schools are free, public schools. However, some charter schools may charge a small fee for kindergarten (e.g., $300/month at some schools) or charge tuition for out-of-state students. Regular Idaho students are not charged tuition.

Application Timing:

• Lottery Applications: February–March (varies by school)
• Application Deadline: Typically February–March for next school year admission
• Lottery Drawing: March (varies by school; publicly conducted)
• Notifications: Late March–early April
• Acceptance Period: Typically 48 hours after notification

Important Notes:

• Families should check individual charter school websites for specific dates, as timelines vary
• Charter school enrollment is determined annually; waitlisted students must reapply each year if not admitted
• Returning students are automatically enrolled if they register by the deadline

Ineligibility for Tax Credit: Students enrolled in charter schools (even part-time) cannot claim the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit, as charter schools are public schools.

Idaho Department of Education – Charter Schools →
Idaho Public Charter School Commission →