Charter school guide
What is a charter school?
A charter school is a tuition-free public school of choice that operates under a written charter, or performance contract. It has defined educational goals and typically receives more operational flexibility in exchange for public accountability.
How charter schools work
The charter describes the school’s mission, program, students served, assessment methods, and measures of success. An approved authorizer oversees that agreement. The organizations permitted to authorize charter schools—and the exact rules schools follow—vary by state.
Are charter schools public schools?
Yes. Charter schools are public schools. They cannot charge tuition or be religious. Although they may be exempt from some operating rules that govern traditional district schools, they must follow applicable public-school requirements and remain accountable for the promises in their charter.
Charter school enrollment and lotteries
Students apply to attend a charter school. Schools may not discriminate in enrollment. When a school receives more applications than it has seats, admission is generally decided by lottery under the rules that apply to that school and state. Always check current deadlines and requirements directly with the school.
What families should compare
Consider the grades served, academic program, student support, learning format, commute, calendar, admissions process, and current performance information. No single measure identifies the right school for every child.
Frequently asked questions
Are charter schools public schools?
Yes. Charter schools are public schools of choice. They cannot charge tuition or be religious, and they remain accountable to public requirements and the terms of their charter.
Do charter schools charge tuition?
No. Public charter schools do not charge tuition.
How do students enroll in a charter school?
Families apply directly under the rules that apply in their state and to that school. When more students apply than there are available seats, admission is generally determined by a lottery, subject to applicable enrollment rules.
Who oversees charter schools?
A charter school is accountable to an authorizer and a written performance contract. Who can authorize schools varies by state and may include districts, state agencies, universities, or other approved bodies.
Are charter schools better than public schools?
Charter schools are public schools, and school quality varies. There is no single school type that is best for every student. Compare current programs, performance, student support, admissions, and practical fit for your family.
Definition and policy overview sourced from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Charter School Resources. State laws and individual school policies vary.