New Hampshire Charter Schools
New Hampshire authorizes “chartered public schools” — commonly known as charter schools — which operate as independent public schools under charters approved by the State Board of Education or a local school district. Charter schools are tuition-free and open to New Hampshire residents.
How They Differ From Traditional Public Schools: Charter schools have greater flexibility in curriculum, staffing, scheduling, and educational approach. Each is built around a specific model — such as STEM, arts integration, classical education, Montessori, or project-based learning. They are governed by independent boards of trustees rather than elected school boards.
Enrollment Model: Charter schools use a fair, open admissions process. When more students apply than a school can serve, state law requires a random lottery. State-authorized charter schools must accept applicants from anywhere in New Hampshire; locally authorized charters may give preference to in-district students.
Tuition and Fees: Tuition-free for New Hampshire residents. Limited fees may apply for specific services. Out-of-state students may be charged tuition.
Current Landscape: There are currently 38 approved charter schools with 32 operational schools serving over 6,000 full-time students plus roughly 12,000 students enrolled in the state’s virtual charter school (VLACS).