While the process to apply for CPS Kindergarten to 9th grade programs is not first come first serve, CPS applications will be open from 10am on September 9, 2026 to 5pm on November 13, 2026 (so far).
Families can apply and rank up to 20 Choice (non test-based lottery admissions for Elementary and most 9th grade programs) and up to 6 Selective Enrollment (test based) programs. Students can get a single offer for each category but will have to decide on one school program to accept during the spring notification period. Initial offers and test results for Fall 2027 entry are scheduled to be released on February 12, 2027 for High School (9th grade) and March 12, 2027 for Elementary (K-8th grade)
Rising 8th graders can take the High School Admissions Test (HSAT) which is now a PreACT 9 Secure exam on Oct 7 in their CPS school and non-CPS 8th graders can register to take the new exam on either Oct 17, 18, 24 or 25. More info at https://www.cps.edu/gocps/high-school/apply/hsat-test/
Check out all the details at the source: https://www.cps.edu/gocps
CPS Preschool program applications for PK3 & PK4 do not open until April 2027 for the 2027-2028 school year. More info on the Preschool process can be found at https://www.cps.edu/ChicagoEarlyLearning/