Overview
- Phase I applications are open now through Feb. 27, 2026, with lottery results to be released on April 8.
- Phase II also begins April 8 for space-available placements and waitlist movement, and families must accept any offered seat by April 21.
- Students not initially offered a seat are automatically waitlisted for any higher-ranked choices, and waitlists for lower-ranked schools are cleared once a placement is offered.
- Vanguard magnet programs require gifted-and-talented designation in reading and math, and secondary fine-arts magnets may require auditions or showcases.
- HISD will host a virtual information session Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. and School Choice fairs on Dec. 13 (Mickey Leland College Preparatory Academy), Feb. 7 (Mandarin Immersion Magnet School), and April 11 (Madison High School), while pre-K applications will follow a separate process with details to be announced.