# Open Enrollment — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/open-enrollment

**In short:** A policy allowing families to choose public schools outside their assigned attendance zone or district.
**Open enrollment** policies allow families to choose public schools outside their assigned neighborhood attendance zone or even outside their school district. These school choice policies aim to increase options and promote competition among schools.

## Types of Open Enrollment

Intradistrict open enrollment allows choice within a district. Interdistrict open enrollment permits crossing district boundaries. Policies vary by state, with some mandating open enrollment statewide and others leaving it to district discretion.

## Considerations

Open enrollment may increase access to specialized programs and higher-performing schools. Critics raise concerns about transportation challenges, impact on neighborhood schools, and potential for increased segregation. Space availability often limits choices.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: Can I send my child to any school with open enrollment?**

Open enrollment allows application to other schools, but acceptance depends on available space. Popular schools may have waiting lists or lotteries.
**Q: Is transportation provided for open enrollment?**

Policies vary. Some districts provide transportation; others require families to arrange their own. Check with your district.
**Q: Does my child have to stay in the open enrollment school?**

Typically yes, once enrolled. However, you can usually apply to transfer again during subsequent enrollment periods.

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Source: SchoolBrowse Education Glossary (https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary). Please attribute and link to https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/open-enrollment when citing this definition.