School in the Square News

How to Apply to School in the Square

March 31, 2026
Applying to a new school can feel overwhelming, especially when you are navigating applications, deadlines, and lottery systems. School in the Square makes the process clear and accessible for families applying for the 2026-27 school year.

Each year, thousands of New York City families apply to join a supportive, high-quality public charter school community. If you’re exploring your options, learn more about our approach and learning pillars.


Step-by-step application process
This guide walks you through each step so you know exactly what to expect.

Confirm eligibility
School in the Square is open to all Pre-K through 11th-grade students who reside in New York State. The school welcomes transfer students, students with IEPs, and bilingual learners.

All eligible students have an equal opportunity through the lottery process.

Choose how to apply
There are two ways to apply to School in the Square:
Applying through SchoolMint is the quickest and easiest option.
If you choose to use the School in the Square print application, you can submit it in one of the following ways:
  • Email the application to enroll@schoolinthesquare.org
  • Deliver the application in person to any School in the Square campus
  • Mail the application to the address below
Mailing Address
School in the Square
Attn: Enrollment
12 Sherman Avenue
New York, NY 10040

Submit your application
Submit your application for the 2026–27 school year before April 2, 2026. Applications are currently open for students in Pre-K through 11th grade.

School in the Square serves students across:
Like all public charter schools in New York City, School in the Square uses a random lottery system for admission. The lottery is completely random and open to all eligible applicants, with no test scores, interviews, grades, or prior school records required.

Lottery Date
April 2, 2026

Admissions preferences
We give priority to siblings of current students and children of staff, and students living in School District 6.

We are committed to accepting all applicants to School in the Square. If your child is not selected in the initial lottery, they will be placed on a waitlist. We continue to make offers throughout the summer and into the fall as seats become available.

Key dates to remember
  • Applications are open now for the 2026-27 school year
  • The lottery takes place on April 2, 2026
Apply before the lottery date to secure your child’s spot in the selection process.

Need help with the application?
The School in the Square enrollment team is available to support families through every step of the process. For questions or to schedule a tour, contact us at enroll@schoolinthesquare.org.