LAUSD magnet points, explained: how kindergarten applicants are selected for 2027–28
- Choices is LAUSD’s application for magnet programs. Magnet points help decide who gets a magnet seat when there are more applicants than seats.
- Kindergarteners can't earn two of the five point types, so your first choice and your commute matter a lot.
- Apply on time by Nov 6, 2026, because late applications get no points.
How are magnet students selected?
For on-time applications, selection considers magnet points, racial balance, and available space. (2027–2028 Choices brochure, pp. 17–18)
What earns magnet points?
| Points | Reason | Who gets them |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | PHBAO school | Your 2027–28 neighborhood school is designated “Predominantly Hispanic, Black, Asian and Other Non-Anglo” by the District. Assigned yearly. |
| 4 | Overcrowded school | Your 2026–27 neighborhood school is designated overcrowded by District criteria. Assigned yearly. |
| 3 | Sibling | A brother or sister will continue at the magnet program that is your first choice. Both students must be associated in the same parent Apply account and live at the same address on file. |
Two other point types (for kids already in a magnet, or on last year's waiting list) don't apply to incoming kindergarteners.
Declining placement while on a waiting list removes all waiting-list points. (2027–2028 Choices brochure, p. 18)
Why do kindergarten applicants usually have fewer points?
By our reading of the brochure, a kindergarten applicant can have at most 11 points: 4 for a PHBAO school, 4 for an overcrowded school, and 3 for a sibling. (2027–2028 Choices brochure, p. 18) For on-time applications, selection also considers racial balance and available space, so 11 points does not guarantee a seat. (2027–2028 Choices brochure, pp. 17–18)
How many magnets can we apply to?
You may apply to up to 3 magnet programs. If your child is not selected for the first choice, they may be considered for the second or third. A child selected for one choice is not placed on the waiting list for the others. If not selected anywhere, the child is waitlisted for the first choice only. (2027–2028 Choices brochure, p. 17)
What should we check about transportation?
Some magnets offer transportation, and routes and stops for 2027–28 are already set. District-paid transportation may be provided for elementary applicants who live more than one mile from the magnet. The maximum one-way ride is 90 minutes. Ask the school or Transportation Services whether a route and stop work for your family. (2027–2028 Choices brochure, p. 17)
Does dual language use magnet points?
No. Dual Language Education programs have no priority points. If applications exceed openings, offers follow priority order and the student may be placed on a waiting list. Some schools use an alternative selection process, so contact the school. (2027–2028 Choices brochure, p. 43)
What should we do before applying?
- Pick up to 3 magnet programs and put your real first choice first.
- Check transportation options and existing stops for each program.
- Submit an on-time application by November 6, 2026. (2027–2028 Choices brochure, p. 3)
Reviewed October 2026. Facts checked against the 2027–2028 Choices brochure on October 18, 2026.