Kansas Open Enrollment Program
We do not administer or manage any programs. For help or official support, visit the state’s program website. Program information verified using official state information.
How does this program work?
The Kansas Open Enrollment Program requires districts to permit any Kansas K-12 student to enroll in and attend their schools if there is capacity.
Why this matters to families in Kansas:
The Kansas Open Enrollment Program gives parents the ability to choose a new public school dependent upon capacity that is a better fit for their child’s learning needs. It ensures families have access to options beyond their assigned public school.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
School Transfer
Funds are not available through this program. On or before May 1st of each year, Kansas school districts will determine and publish how much extra capacity they have for transfer students for each of their schools.
Who is eligible for this program?
Any Kansas K-12 student is eligible to apply for a transfer under the Kansas Open Enrollment Program. Children of current members of the United States armed forces are eligible to attend any school they choose. Districts may place students into a lottery system for available open spots, depending on the number of school openings and the applications submitted.
Families may appeal the decision if a student does not receive a requested transfer.
How can families use the funds?
Funds are not available through the Kansas Open Enrollment Program. Transportation to the transferred school may or may not be made available and is dependent on the policies as established by each individual district.
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Kansas.
- Educational Status: Students must be eligible to enroll in kindergarten through grade 12.
How do families apply?
- Check District Site: You will need to determine which district and school you wish to register for your child’s transfer request. The Kansas State Department of Education has a number of directories from which to choose if you are looking to transfer out of your current district. If you are looking to transfer within your district, please use your district’s site.
- Complete the Transfer Request: The open enrollment application period starts June 1 and runs through June 30. Families will be notified whether their student has been accepted by July 15. Generally, requests are handled on a first-come first-served so ensure you have the information for your school/district of choice.
- Appeals Process: If your child is denied a transfer, you have a right to appeal to the district’s board.
Where can families learn more?
For other Kansas School Choice Programs: Refer to our Kansas State Summary.