Maine Public School Transfers
Maine allows limited public school open enrollment, permitting students to request transfers to schools within their district (intra-district) or to schools in other districts (inter-district). However, participation is voluntary for school districts and approval is at district discretion.
Program Type: Voluntary public school transfer
Two Types of Open Enrollment:
1. Intra-District Choice: Students may request transfer to other schools within their school district
2. Inter-District Choice: Students may request transfer to public schools in other districts
Tuition: Families pay full tuition and transportation costs. There is no state reimbursement for open enrollment transfers.
Availability: Highly variable. Districts are not required to participate in open enrollment. Approval is entirely at district discretion.
Application Process:
- Contact your current school district to inquire about open enrollment policies
- Contact the receiving district to confirm they accept transfer students
- Submit application according to district procedures
- Await approval (not guaranteed)
- If approved, arrange payment of tuition and transportation
Application Timing: Varies by district; typically spring/summer for fall enrollment. Contact your school district directly for specific deadlines and procedures.
Mid-Year Transfers: Possibly allowed, but depends on district policy. Contact your school district to ask about mid-year transfer options.
Transportation: Families are responsible for all transportation costs to out-of-district schools
Important Limitations:
- Not guaranteed – Districts may deny requests at their discretion
- Families pay full costs (tuition + transportation)
- Policies vary widely by district
- No state funding follows the student in open enrollment
Free Alternatives: Charter schools offer a tuition-free statewide public school option without geographic restrictions or out-of-pocket costs.
Contact: Your student’s school district for specific open enrollment policies and procedures