Creative Arts Charter School
Our Mission

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I apply?
  2. What is the timeline for the application process?
  3. Do I add Creative Arts to SFUSD's Enrollment Application?
  4. Does CACS accept students who do not live in San Francisco?
  5. How does CACS select its students?
  6. Are there any preferences given to any students in the lottery process?
  7. If my child has an Individual Education Plans (IEP) can I still apply to CACS?
  8. Why do middle school students need to complete a student application, if CACS uses an enrollment lottery?
  9. How do students transfer to CACS?
  10. If I miss the application deadline, can I still apply?

  1. How do I apply?
    Complete a Creative Arts Charter School Student Application Form and turn in with required documentation. Applications are provided at during school tours or may be downloaded from the navigation bar on the left. Note: See the Admissions Procedures for more information and requirements.
  2. What is the timeline for the application process?
    Applications are accepted beginning the date of our first tour in October through the last school day of To be eligible for the first lottery, we must receive your completed application with correct documentation by the last business day of February. We will conduct a lottery in March and mail offers by mid-March. We continue to make offers as necessary to fill spaces.
  3. Do I add Creative Arts to SFUSD's Enrollment Application?
    No. Creative Arts Charter School's enrollment process is separate from SFUSD. If you are applying to SFUSD, do not list Creative Arts as one of your choices on the District's enrollment form. If you are accepted to Creative Arts, we will provide you with our Enrollment Application II that includes some additional questions similar to the District's application form. The Enrollment Application II is copied to the SFUSD Educational Placement Center for inclusion in the district's student database. Creative Arts students are part of SFUSD.
  4. Does CACS accept students who do not live in San Francisco?
    Yes. However, our application guidelines allow us to give admission preference to San Francisco residents. Applicants who do not reside in San Francisco who accept enrollment must apply for and receive an inter-district transfer from the home school district.
  5. How does CACS select its students?
    We conduct a lottery for incoming students when applications exceed openings.
  6. Are there any preferences given to any students in the lottery process?
    Yes. See our     Admission Procedures for current preference factors.
  7. If my child has an Individual Education Plans (IEP) can I still apply to CACS?
    Yes. When turning in your application, provide a copy of the most current IEP. We will review this document to ensure your child's needs (as outlined in the IEP) are met.
  8. Why do middle school students need to complete a student application, if CACS uses an enrollment lottery?
    It is important that student and families make an informed choice to attend CACS. Our program includes several arts classes per week, which are a mandatory part of our program. By completing the Middle School Student Application, students have an opportunity to express their interests.
  9. How do students transfer to CACS?
    Students who wish to transfer to CACS must submit a completed application with correct documentation. You should submit an application as soon as you decide you want to transfer. Transfer students not enrolled immediately will be placed on our waiting list.
  10. If I miss the application deadline, can I still apply?
    After February, we will continue to accept applications through mid-June. After this, our enrollment office will be closed. Contact us in directly to apply before the next application period.