(New Orleans – November 3, 2025) — NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS) is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year through the NOLA Common Application Process (NCAP). New kindergarteners, 8th graders entering high school, or families needing a school for next year can apply today through January 23!
What is NCAP? NCAP lets families apply online to schools at any time during the Main Round period, which ends on January 23, 2026. Every application is considered at the same time, so there's no rush to apply early. After the Main Round closes, the system will match students to schools, and families will be notified by March 31, 2026.
What's New This Year? We've made some important changes to better meet the needs of families and schools. To ensure we have the best contact information possible, families are now prompted to update or review their email address and phone number each time they log into the Parent Portal. Better contact information allows for better communication with families about next steps and match results. In addition to making the school selection and matching process as smooth as possible, NOLA-PS is enhancing its efforts to ensure every family's contact information is accurate and up to date, helping us deliver timely results and important updates for every child.
How to Apply: To explore schools and complete your application, visit nolapublicschools.com and click on the "Enroll" button. This will take you to the NOLA-PS unified enrollment center, where you can find updated information about the application process. We encourage families to choose up to twelve schools to maximize their options in the NCAP.
Which Schools Are Included? The NCAP includes all 66 NOLA-PS schools, plus four public schools authorized by the Louisiana State Board of Education.
Some schools have extra admissions requirements, like assessments or open houses, so be sure to check for those details on enrollnolaps.com or the prompts within the application portal.
Who Needs to Apply? You should submit an application if your child:
- Is entering Kindergarten (must be 5 years old by September 30, 2026).
- Is new to New Orleans or public schools.
- Wants to transfer to a new school for the 2026-2027 year.
- Is in a transitional grade (such as PK-4 or 8th grade) and needs to select a new school.
- Is in a program that requires a reapplication (your child's school will let you know if this applies).
School Matching Priorities: When matching students to schools, NCAP gives priority to factors like having a sibling at the school or living nearby.
Tips for Families: We encourage you to take time to explore your school options and make sure you understand any additional admissions requirements, like assessments. Tools like the "Explore Schools" feature on nola.ps/explore can help you find the right fit for your child. You'll find information about school locations, grades offered, and even extracurricular activities.
What if I Miss the Main Round? Don't worry! There will be other chances to apply later during open enrollment which starts May 13, 2026, but keep in mind that some schools might fill up after the Main Round.
For more information, visit enrollnolaps.com or connect with us if you have questions!
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About NOLA Public Schools: NOLA Public Schools is the public school district for Orleans Parish. It includes the district's administration and elected school board, known as the Orleans Parish School Board. NOLA Public Schools currently oversees 66 public schools and is led by Superintendent Dr. Fateama S. Fulmore.
For more information, visit www.nolapublicschools.com. For updates, follow NOLA Public Schools on Facebook @NOLAPublicSchools, Instagram @nolaps and Twitter @NOLAPSchools.