Applying to High School on GoCPS
Application Checklist
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Log In or Create Your GoCPS Account
Once the GoCPS application cycle opens, log in to activate your GoCPS account or sign up to create a new account. To create an account you’ll need the student applicant's name and date of birth, and a CPS ID number.
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Select Programs to Apply To
Add Selective Enrollment and/or choice programs to your application. If you have a priority preference, make sure you check the box — many families miss this step. Non-CPS applicants will need to upload a copy of the official transcript.
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Mark Important Dates on Your Calendar
Applications for programs can be submitted during the fall GoCPS application window or after the rolling waitlist opens. The dates change yearly, so be sure to confirm deadlines for the current application cycle.
Tips for Applying
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Carefully research the available programs and apply to as many programs as you would accept an offer from. Find programs on the CPS School Search.
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Only apply to schools/programs where you would accept an offer if your child receives one.
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Check the maximum number of programs you can apply for. Learn more about applying to Choice programs and Selective Enrollment programs.
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Rank all programs applying for in true order of preference and have your list ready when filling out the application. Learn more about ranking programs.
High School
- SEPTEMBER 23rd, 2025 - Application Period Opens
- OCTOBER 8th, 2025 - HSAT Exam for CPS Students
- OCTOBER 15th, 2025 - Alternative Language HSAT for Current CPS/Charter Students
- OCTOBER 18th-19th and 25th-26th, 2025 - HSAT Exam for Non-CPS Students (Registration Required)
- NOVEMBER 14th, 2025 - Application Period Closes
Navigating the Application Process
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Managing Your GoCPS Application
Learn how to create a GoCPS account, start your application, and make any necessary changes.
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Ranking Programs
When you apply to Choice and Selective Enrollment programs through GoCPS, you will rank the programs in order of preference. The GoCPS selection process is designed to offer applicants the highest ranked program on their GoCPS application that they are eligible for and that has available seats.
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High School Admissions Test (HSAT)
The CPS HSAT is an achievement skills test that assesses students in two subject areas: Math and Reading. These scores may be included as a component of a student's GoCPS application for eligibility and admission to both choice and Selective Enrollment high school programs (check individual programs for details). It is administered in the fall.
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Official Grades or Marks for GoCPS High School Programs
Some GoCPS high school programs, including all Selective Enrollment programs, require an applicant's official 7th grade marks.
Next Phase
The application system will use a combination of factors to attempt to give the student an offer from the highest-ranked Choice Program and/or Selective Enrollment Program on their application for which they qualify and for which there are available seats.