5 Tips for Applying to Magnet Schools in Miami

Not all public schools in Miami are the same. If you live in Miami you may already know this…but what are Magnet Schools?

Magnet Schools are public schools that offer a unique course or track to further develop a student’s interest, talents and abilities. Best of all, they are tuition free and open to all regardless of where you live.

In case you didn’t know, Miami-Dade County has been awarded the most Magnet School Awards in the Country. Their program offerings are incredibly diverse with emphasis in the five fundamental areas: STEM, Visual & Performing Arts, Liberal Arts, Virtual Learning and International Programs.

October 1 is here. This crucial date kicks off the application period to all magnet school programs in Miami-Dade County.

Here are some tips to help you navigate through the anxiety and uncertainty that come with the Magnet Application Process.  

1 – Start Early

Admission is based on a lottery system. Applications are accepted October 1 – January, 15th, 2020. I highly recommend to start doing your research as early as possible. Some schools host limited tours for prospective parents and these fill up quickly, often months in advance. Remember you can apply to up to five magnet schools/programs. Some schools will require special testing or auditions. If you apply late, you may not get an opportunity to test or will have limited audition window.  Click here to access the latest Magnet Event Calendar.

2- Be Open Minded

Chances are that most of the schools that offer magnet programs are not in your immediate area. Be prepared to accept this fact: You will be driving. Also, do not eliminate options because the school may have had a lower grading. Within large schools, there are often smaller well-run Magnet Programs. For more information Click Here to browse through the Miami Magnet School Programs.

3- Get to Know Your Kids’ Interest Early

Try to envision your child’s path from Elementary through High School. For example, foreign language instruction in Elementary will solidify a path in International Studies through Middle School and High School. The same applies for children who are passionate about STEM, a structured and advanced math curriculum in middle school will open opportunities for High School.  

4- Do not Give Up

More often than not, families get waitlisted to a particular school/program. Once admission notices go out in mid-March, families accept or decline within a two to three-week window. Therefore, there may still be a chance that a space opens up once schools have received all final confirmed registrations (this sometimes happens sometime in April). Stay in touch with the prospective school around this time (but do not be as stalker!).

5- Keep Your Options Open

Rejection is extremely disappointing. It has happened to me – and more than once. The most popular entry grades are always First / Sixth / Ninth. Keep persisting and applying. You may have a better chance at getting accepted the following year(s), perhaps when applicants are fewer. Do also consider other options, including Charter Schools which have different application periods but also offer tuition free education.