LAUSD dual language programs for kindergarten applicants
Dual Language Education (DLE) teaches grade-level content and literacy in English and a target language. For a 2027–28 kindergarten or Transitional Kindergarten (TK) seat, apply through LAUSD’s Choices school-choice application for magnets and other participating programs by November 6, 2026. Compare each model’s language eligibility and classroom balance, then check the school’s program listing. The brochure describes English Learner (EL) eligibility by model; the rules are not the same across all three.
Three program models
| Model | Who it serves | Kindergarten eligibility in plain words |
|---|---|---|
| Two-Way Immersion (TWI) | Native English speakers and native speakers of the target language learn together. | Eligible groups include ELs who speak the program’s target language and English Only (EO), Initially Fluent English Proficient (IFEP), and Reclassified Fluent English Proficient (RFEP) students. |
| One-Way Immersion (OWI) | English Learners whose primary home language is the target language. | English Learners who speak the program’s target language, including International Newcomers. |
| World Language Immersion (WLI) | English-speaking students learn academic content with targeted instruction in another language. | English speakers, including EO, IFEP, and RFEP students; EL students who speak the target language may also be eligible at parent request. |
These summaries reflect the brochure’s TK, kindergarten, and grade 1 eligibility language. For Two-Way Immersion, an English Learner qualifies only if they speak the program’s target language. Check the specific school listing for its grade range and any additional instructions.
Languages with kindergarten listings
| Language | Number of K listings |
|---|---|
| Spanish | 140 |
| Korean | 8 |
| Mandarin | 5 |
| Armenian | 3 |
| French | 2 |
| Arabic | 1 |
| Japanese | 1 |
How selection works
DLE programs do not award priority points. If there are more qualified applicants than spaces, the brochure applies these preferences in order:
1. Siblings living within the school attendance boundary. 2. Students living within the school attendance boundary. 3. Siblings living within LAUSD boundaries. 4. Students living within LAUSD boundaries. 5. Siblings requiring an Inter-District Permit. 6. Students requiring an Inter-District Permit.
When applications exceed openings, students not offered a seat go on a waiting list. Some schools use an alternative selection process; check the symbol in the brochure’s school listing and contact that school for details. Applicants to Multilingual Multicultural Programs (MMP) remain on the waiting list through the end of the school year to which they applied; this differs from the magnet waitlist rule.
TK and applying
Some DLE schools offer TK, but not all. The brochure directs families to contact individual schools for age requirements and further information. To find a program, use the brochure’s “Dual Language Education Programs schools by language” list; it gives the school, program, and region.
Apply through the LAUSD Choices application by November 6, 2026. Use the step-by-step application guide and the guide for families who missed the deadline or are moving to LA. If your list combines dual language and magnets, also read how magnet points work and how to rank magnet choices.
Reviewed October 2026. Program details and counts come from the 2027–28 Choices brochure.