Looking for an effective way to fast-track your child’s education (without paying for pricey private schools?)
Applications are currently open for Wake County’s award-winning Magnet School Programs — offering free, public education programs with a focus on a wide range of subjects + disciplines, from STEM and the arts to global studies and language immersion.
Best of all, they’re open to all students in Wake County K-12 — no fees, entry tests, or auditions required.
Here’s how to get your child enrolled:
Step one: Explore your options
The current Magnet Application Period is open now through Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. During this time, parents and prospective students are encouraged to:
- Explore the 30+ local Magnet Programs
- Attend an open house or schedule a private tour (highly recommended for all parents)
- Connect with current staff
- See the magnet program in action
- Get a feel for the unique learning environments
In short, this window is your chance to see if your child would benefit from these specialized programs.
Step two: Select your preferred programs
Once you feel you’ve found a fit, all that’s left is submitting your application.
Wake County has streamlined the process for parents in a major way, and you can apply for multiple programs — all from the comfort of your couch.
Here’s what that looks like:
- Create a parent account
- Choose your schools: Select between one and five magnet schools you’re interested in and rank them in order of preference.
- Submit your application before Thursday, Jan. 23.
Prop tip: If your family is new to WCPSS, you’ll need to enroll first to receive your student ID number.
Step three: See where you’ve been accepted
Once the application is submitted, all that’s left is to view your child’s placement in a program.
That info will be released on Saturday, Feb. 22, via the same portal you submitted your application. Ready to get started?
