The SchoolChoice application window opens in just a few weeks! While the application doesn’t open until Dec. 1 at 10 a.m., right now is the best time to do the prep work so you feel confident and ready when Round 1 opens.
To help families prepare, we’re sharing the third installment of our SchoolChoice video series. In this episode, we walk through simple steps you can take right now to research schools, gather required documents and stay ahead of key dates.
What to Do Now to Prepare
Taking a few simple steps today will make submitting your application quick and stress-free once the window opens:
Research Your Options and Compare Schools: Take time to explore schools, specialized academic offerings, transportation options and extracurricular activities. To help you compare schools side-by-side, use our downloadable School Comparison Worksheet (Google Sheet) to track school details and questions during your search.
Schedule and Take School Tours: Many DPS schools host open houses, virtual info sessions and in-person tours throughout the fall. Visiting schools in person or reaching out directly to school leaders is a great way to experience the school community and ask specific questions.
Gather Required Documents: To ensure a smooth application process, collect your required paperwork in advance:
Proof of Address: Recent utility bill, lease agreement or mortgage statement.
Proof of Income (ECE-4 applicants only): Recent pay stub, wage statement or tax return.
High School Transcripts: Required only if applying for grades 10–12.
Create or Update Your SchoolChoice Account: Before the application window opens, log in to your SchoolChoice account to ensure your contact details, address and student information are accurate and up to date.
Special Note for Early Childhood Education (ECE) Families
All children in Colorado are eligible for up to 15 hours per week of tuition-free preschool in the year before kindergarten through the Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) program. If you’re applying for an ECE-4 program, you must submit both the DPS SchoolChoice application and the UPK application (which opens Dec. 8).
Learn more about the ECE Application Process.
Important Dates & Reminders
Round 1 of SchoolChoice opens on Dec. 1, 2026, at 10 a.m. and closes Jan. 19, 2027, at 4 p.m. Placement results will be released in late February 2027.
Remember: You can submit your application anytime during the Round 1 window — all applications submitted before Jan. 19 at 4 p.m. receive equal consideration in the lottery.
Next Steps:
Explore and compare schools using School Finder and the School Comparison Worksheet.
Log in to your SchoolChoice account to verify your family's information.
Stay informed throughout the season by signing up for the SchoolChoice Newsletter.