Transfer Process Overview (K-11)

The 2024-2025 Application Process is OPEN as of February 15, 2024. Click Here to access the application portal.

 

Please call (315) 435-4545 should you have any additional questions. 

The Syracuse City School District offers families an opportunity to request a transfer from one SCSD school to another, following certain criteria. The different types of transfers and the criteria associated with each are listed below in priority order.

 

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FAQs

Does requesting a transfer guarantee a transfer?

Requesting a transfer does not guarantee a transfer. All transfers are based on criteria and seat availability. If there are more students eligible to receive a transfer than there are seats available, the District will conduct a lottery using the Smartchoice Online Lottery System.
 

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I'm new to the district or returning to the SCSD. What do I need to do?

If your child is new to the district you must complete the online registration form and a transfer application if you seek a transfer.
 

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How many times can my child transfer?

Students in grades K-5 will be granted a maximum of two (2) transfers throughout their elementary years; and those in grades 6-8 will be granted a maximum of one (1) transfer during middle school. 
Students in grades 9-11 will be granted a maximum of one (1) transfer during high school.
 

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Lottery system

If there are more students eligible to receive a transfer than there are seats available, the District will conduct a lottery using an electronic lottery system. Students who are eligible to enter the lottery, but not selected in the lottery, will be automatically assigned a waitlist number through the an electronic lottery system. Students are eligible to remain on the waitlist for the first two marking periods of the school year. The Department of Student Registration will contact the parent/guardian if or when a seat becomes available. Families will be required to re-apply for a transfer each year, but will be given priority in the lottery the subsequent year only that their child is not selected.

Students who are waitlisted will be required to attend their home school (new students), remain enrolled in their current school (active students) or attend their feeder school for those students transitioning to grade 6 and grade 9.
 

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Notification process

Parents/guardians will receive a letter from the Department of Student Registration detailing their acceptance or waitlist status.