Open Enrollment FAQ
Have Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions below.
Is transportation provided for families attending an RISD school through the open enrollment or transfer process?
No. It is the responsibility of the family to provide transportation to and from school and school-related events. Prospective families are encouraged to carefully consider family transportation options before applying.
Is Pre-K part of the open enrollment process?
No, RISD is currently accepting open enrollment transfers for students who will be in grades K-12 in 2026-27.
Are RISD Magnet programs open to families outside of RISD?
No. RISD’s magnet programs are an option for families who reside inside RISD boundaries and for families of all current RISD employees
I am a full-time RISD employee. and my family lives outside of RISD boundaries. How do I enroll my child in an RISD school?
Children of current full-time RISD employees can enroll through an inter-district transfer process. Learn more about the inter-district transfer process (only open to current full-time RISD employees.)
My family lives within RISD boundaries and currently attends a charter or private school. What are my RISD enrollment options?
Families living within RISD boundaries may enroll at their attendance area school, apply to attend a magnet program, or may enroll and request an intra-district transfer to an RISD school with available space.
What is the difference between Open Enrollment, an intra-district transfer and an inter-district transfer?
- The open enrollment process is how families who live outside of RISD boundaries (and are not current full-time RISD employees) can attend an RISD school.
- The intra-district transfer process is how families who live within RISD boundaries can apply to attend a school that is not their attendance area school.
- The inter-district transfer process is how families who live outside of RISD boundaries can attend an RISD school.
How do I know what school my student will attend?
The open enrollment application will allow you to identify your top 3 school preferences. In early July, all open enrollment application decisions will be communicated with families and will include the school your child has been placed at.
When will a decision on my open enrollment application be communicated?
The district will communicate all open enrollment application decisions in early July.
Whom do I contact with questions?
When does the Open Enrollment application window open in RISD?
April 1 through midnight on July 1.
Can a current RISD enrolled student apply to transfer to another RISD school in the district?
Yes. Current RISD families will continue to initiate a transfer request and complete the form. RISD is committed to processing and honoring any intra-district transfer requests for current families before placing open enrollment applications for families that reside outside of RISD.
Do I have to reapply each year?
No, a new transfer request is not required if your student remains in good standing and will continue at their current school or its designated feeder school.
A new application must be submitted only if you are requesting a transfer to a different campus or a different feeder pattern.
Can my student participate in extracurricular activities?
Students may participate in non-varsity athletics and extracurriculars, but UIL rules restrict varsity athletic eligibility for transfer students during their first year. For eligibility details, consult with the RISD Athletics Department.
What if I can’t provide some of the required documents?
Include a written explanation and supporting documentation (e.g., homeschool affidavit, letter from administrator) for any missing items. Incomplete applications without explanation may be disqualified.
Are students with disciplinary issues eligible for Open Enrollment?
Students with significant disciplinary issues, such as suspensions, expulsions, or placements in DAEP (Disciplinary Alternative Education Program), may not be eligible for Open Enrollment.
How long do I have to accept an offer for my child?
Once the email offer is sent, you will have 5 days to confirm your child’s placement. If you do not respond within that time frame, your child’s seat will be forfeited.
Can I apply for Open Enrollment if I’m moving into the district?
If you are in the process of moving into the RISD boundaries, you may apply for Open Enrollment, but you must provide documentation such as a closing statement or proof of property purchase to confirm residency.