The 30 Best High Schools in Wake, North Carolina: Academic Performance Guide
Wake County, North Carolina stands as one of the state’s most prominent educational districts, serving families across Raleigh, Cary, Apex, and surrounding communities with a diverse array of high-quality secondary schools.
The district encompasses traditional public schools, specialized magnet programs, early college opportunities, and charter institutions that collectively serve thousands of students each year.
Parents and students in Wake County have access to exceptional educational opportunities ranging from highly-rated traditional high schools to innovative STEM programs and International Baccalaureate offerings.
The county’s schools consistently rank among North Carolina’s top performers, with institutions like Green Hope High School, Cary Academy, and Raleigh Charter High School earning recognition for academic excellence.
These schools offer distinct advantages through advanced placement programs, specialized curricula, and unique learning environments designed to prepare students for college and career success.
Here are the 30 best high schools in Wake County, North Carolina:
1. Green Hope High School
Green Hope High School stands as one of Wake County’s premier educational institutions. The school serves over 2,000 students in grades 9-12 in Cary.
The school ranks 13th statewide among North Carolina public high schools. It holds the 9th position among the best public high schools in the state according to multiple ranking systems.
Students can access Advanced Placement coursework with 56% participation rates in AP exams. The student-teacher ratio maintains a manageable 20:1 proportion.
Green Hope consistently demonstrates high academic performance with SAT scores averaging 1160. The school receives a 10/10 rating from GreatSchools for its academic excellence.
The institution operates within Wake County Schools and has established itself as a top college preparatory school. Green Hope ranks 13th among college prep public high schools in North Carolina.
2. Cary Academy
Cary Academy stands as one of Wake County’s premier private educational institutions. The school maintains a strong commitment to discovery, innovation, and collaboration in its learning environment.
The academy consistently ranks among the top private high schools in North Carolina. According to recent rankings, it holds the position as the #1 best private high school and #2 best college prep private high school in the state.
Students at Cary Academy benefit from a rigorous academic program designed to prepare them for higher education. The school emphasizes lifelong learning and provides a comprehensive educational experience.
The institution serves as a private learning community in Cary, NC. Its focus on academic excellence and innovative teaching methods attracts families seeking quality education in the Wake County area.
3. Raleigh Charter High School
Raleigh Charter High School ranks #206 in national high school rankings according to U.S. News & World Report. The school consistently holds the top position among high schools in the Raleigh area.
The charter school serves grades 9-12 and maintains a 4.45 out of 5 rating based on 211 reviews. It focuses on challenging college-bound students in a supportive academic environment.
Raleigh Charter High School ranks #5 among all North Carolina high schools. The school performs above average compared to other public and charter schools in the state with similar grade levels.
The institution emphasizes developing knowledgeable and thoughtful students who contribute meaningfully to their communities. Students receive preparation for higher education through rigorous academic programs.
Rankings show Raleigh Charter High School among the top charter schools in Wake County alongside Quest Academy and Magellan Charter.
4. Wake STEM Early College High School
Wake STEM Early College High School operates as a joint project between Wake County Public School System and NC State University. This small public school of choice focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
The school ranks 10th within North Carolina and 4th among Wake County public high schools. It holds the top position for magnet high schools in the Raleigh area.
Students can enroll in Advanced Placement coursework and college-level classes. The school serves grades 9-12 and maintains locations in both Cary and Raleigh.
Wake STEM has earned recognition for academic excellence and diversity. The school received a Niche grade of A+ and a GreatSchools rating of 9 out of 10.
The institution emphasizes family and community partnerships alongside high-quality instruction. Wake STEM performs above average compared to other North Carolina public and charter schools.
5. William G. Enloe High School
William G. Enloe High School stands as a premier magnet school in Raleigh, serving 2,643 students in grades 9-12. The school operates at 128 Clarendon Crescent with approximately 149 full-time teachers.
Enloe ranks #20 out of 429 high schools statewide, placing it in the 95th percentile. The school maintains an 18:1 student-teacher ratio, slightly above the Wake County average of 16:1.
As a magnet school, Enloe offers Advanced Placement courses and International Baccalaureate programs. Students can participate in 23 different sports programs.
The school belongs to Wake County School District, which includes 36 total high schools. Enloe has earned recognition as a 10-star school based on comprehensive academic analysis.
Recent initiatives include college and career fairs to support student post-graduation planning.
6. Millbrook High School
Millbrook Magnet High School stands as a prominent educational institution in Raleigh, North Carolina. The school operates as a public magnet school within the Wake County Schools district.
The school holds recognition as a National Magnet School of Excellence for 2024. Dr. Brian Saunders serves as the principal of this distinguished institution.
Millbrook High School offers Advanced Placement courses and the International Baccalaureate program. These rigorous academic programs provide students with college-level coursework and international educational opportunities.
The school ranks #101 out of 449 high schools statewide in North Carolina, placing it in the 78th percentile. Various ranking systems position the school differently, with some sources noting higher rankings within the state.
Athletics remain part of the school experience, with the institution supporting multiple sports programs. The combination of academic rigor and extracurricular opportunities creates a comprehensive educational environment for students.
7. Wake Early College of Health and Science
Wake Early College of Health and Science ranks among the top high schools in Wake County and North Carolina. The school holds the 15th position out of 641 schools in the county.
This specialized institution serves 328 students and focuses on health sciences education. The school operates as a joint program between Wake County Public Schools and partnering higher education institutions.
Wake Early College of Health and Science earned a 10/10 rating from GreatSchools. The school performs above average compared to other public and charter schools in North Carolina with similar grade levels.
The institution ranks #5 among the best public high schools in Wake County according to multiple ranking systems. Students benefit from early college opportunities that allow them to earn college credits while completing their high school education.
The school’s specialized curriculum prepares students for careers in healthcare and related fields.
8. Panther Creek High School
Panther Creek High School stands as one of Wake County’s premier educational institutions. The school receives a perfect 10/10 rating from GreatSchools and ranks #7 among public high schools in Wake County.
Located in Cary, the school serves 2,555 students with a student-teacher ratio of 21:1. This large enrollment allows for diverse course offerings and extensive extracurricular opportunities.
The school maintains strong academic performance with a 95% graduation rate. Nearly half of students participate in Advanced Placement exams, demonstrating the school’s college preparatory focus.
Panther Creek ranks #27 statewide and #850 nationally according to U.S. News rankings. The school earned recognition as #18 among North Carolina’s best college prep public high schools.
The institution offers comprehensive programs including AP courses, athletics, and Gifted & Talented programs. These diverse opportunities prepare students for future academic and career challenges.
9. Green Level High School
Green Level High School in Cary ranks #8 among North Carolina high schools and #332 nationally. The school serves grades 9-12 within Wake County Public Schools.
With an enrollment of 2,143 students, Green Level maintains a 20:1 student-teacher ratio. The school ranks #2 among public high schools in Wake County and #2 in the Raleigh metro area.
Green Level receives a 10/10 rating from GreatSchools and performs above average compared to other North Carolina public and charter schools. The school ranks #3 for college prep programs among Wake County public high schools.
The Gators focus on creating an equitable and inclusive learning environment. Green Level’s strong performance on state-required tests and graduation rates contribute to its high rankings across multiple rating systems.
10. Woods Charter School
Woods Charter School stands out as one of North Carolina’s top-performing charter institutions. The school consistently ranks among the state’s elite high schools.
Located in Chapel Hill, Woods Charter earned the #9 position statewide in recent rankings. The school also achieved #333 nationally according to U.S. News evaluations.
Woods Charter focuses on classical liberal arts education combined with modern science curriculum. This approach develops well-rounded students with strong academic foundations.
The school operates as part of a K-12 charter system. Students benefit from continuity in educational philosophy throughout their academic journey.
Charter schools captured one-third of North Carolina’s top 30 high school positions. Woods Charter contributed significantly to this strong charter school performance in state rankings.
11. Wake Young Men’s Leadership Academy
Wake Young Men’s Leadership Academy serves students in grades 6-12 as a single-gender public school in Raleigh. The school operates as an early college institution within Wake County Public School System.
Xavier King serves as the principal of this merit school of distinction. The academy maintains school hours from 7:35 am to 2:10 pm daily.
Academic performance stands strong with 87% of students scoring at or above proficient levels in both math and reading. The school ranks 81st statewide among North Carolina high schools.
Students can access Advanced Placement coursework and exams as part of their educational experience. The academy has achieved recognition as high as 18th out of 640 schools in previous rankings.
The school partners with Shaw University to provide early college opportunities starting in fall 2025. This partnership enhances the academic rigor and college credit opportunities available to students.
12. Leesville Road High School
Leesville Road High School ranks 63rd statewide in North Carolina and 12th among 51 high schools in the Raleigh metro area. The school serves grades 9-12 within the Wake County Public School System.
Located at 8410 Pride Way in Raleigh, the school receives a 9/10 rating from GreatSchools. This comprehensive high school offers Advanced Placement coursework and exams for college preparation.
The school performs above average compared to other North Carolina public and charter schools with similar grade levels. It ranks 2nd among 21 ranked high schools in Wake County.
Leesville Road High School operates nationally recognized programs in academics, athletics, and fine arts. The school particularly excels in athletics, ranking 10th among 659 high schools statewide for student athletes.
Students benefit from strong STEM programs, with the school ranking 116th out of 308 North Carolina high schools in this category.
13. Middle Creek High School
Middle Creek High School in Apex ranks 60th statewide among North Carolina high schools. The school serves grades 9-12 within the Wake County Public School System.
Students can enroll in Advanced Placement coursework and take AP exams. The school ranks 19th among public high schools in Wake County.
Middle Creek High receives strong ratings from multiple sources. GreatSchools gives it a 7 out of 10 rating, while Niche assigns an A- grade.
The school performs above average compared to other North Carolina public and charter schools at the same grade levels. It ranks in the top 30% of public schools statewide.
Middle Creek High ranks 22nd among North Carolina high schools for athletics. For STEM programs, it places 84th out of 308 schools in the state.
14. Broughton High School
Needham Broughton High School ranks 62nd within North Carolina and 14th among Wake County schools. The magnet school operates from 7:25 am to 2:18 pm daily.
Located at 723 St. Mary’s Street in Raleigh, Broughton serves as one of 32 high schools in the Wake County Public School System. The school earned designation as a 2025 Magnet School of Excellence.
Students can access Advanced Placement coursework and International Baccalaureate programs. The school offers 32 different sports programs for student athletes.
Broughton receives strong community ratings with a Niche grade of A- and GreatSchools rating of 8 out of 10. The average student GPA stands at 3.57.
The school maintains a reputation as one of the area’s top high schools. Janiece Dilts serves as the current principal.
15. Sanderson High School
Sanderson High School ranks 228th within North Carolina and holds the 28th position among Wake County’s public high schools. The school serves 1,661 students in grades 9-12 as part of the Wake County Schools district.
Located in Raleigh, Sanderson offers Advanced Placement coursework and exams for college-bound students. The school also provides a Gifted & Talented program to support high-achieving learners.
Established in 1968, Jesse O. Sanderson High School operates as one of 36 high schools in the Wake County Public School System. The institution maintains accreditation through Cognia.
Students can participate in athletic programs with two sports offerings available. The school receives a rating of 3.74 out of 5 based on community reviews.
Sanderson High School ranks within the top 30% of North Carolina’s public schools, placing 636th out of 2,617 schools statewide.
16. Athens Drive High School
Athens Drive Magnet High School serves students in grades 9-12 in southwestern Raleigh. The school operates from 7:25 a.m. to 2:18 p.m. and maintains a contact number of 919-233-4050.
The school ranks 77th within North Carolina and holds the 12th position among Wake County public high schools. Athens Drive received recognition as a 2025 National Top School of Excellence.
Students can access Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The school maintains an 85% graduation rate and receives an 8/10 rating from evaluation services.
Athens Drive earned the Ronald P. Simpson Distinguished Merit Award from Magnet Schools of America. This award recognizes the nation’s top magnet schools for academic excellence.
The school ranks 18th out of 705 for diversity among North Carolina public high schools. Athens Drive consistently places in the top half of state high school rankings.
17. Fuquay-Varina High School
Fuquay-Varina High School serves 1,744 students in grades 9-12. The school ranks 90th within North Carolina and places in the top 30% of all state schools for overall test scores.
Students have access to Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The school operates from 7:25 am to 2:18 pm under Principal Robert M. James.
GreatSchools gives Fuquay-Varina High a 6/10 rating. The school performs average compared to other public and charter schools in North Carolina with similar grade levels.
Within the Raleigh metro area, Fuquay-Varina High ranks 27th out of 51 high schools. This places the school in the 47th percentile among area schools.
The school’s mascot is the Bengals. Fuquay-Varina High ranks 24th out of 40 public high schools in Wake County according to recent rankings.
18. Cary High School
Cary High School holds the distinction of being North Carolina’s first public school. The institution maintains a strong commitment to tradition, honor, and excellence in education.
The school is ranked 98th within North Carolina and 17th among Wake County public high schools. Students can access Advanced Placement coursework and exams to earn college credit.
Cary High School serves grades 9-12 within the Wake County Schools district. The school offers comprehensive academic programs designed to prepare students for post-secondary education.
The institution ranks 14th among the most diverse public high schools in the Raleigh area. It also places 15th for best high schools for athletes in the region.
Students benefit from a range of educational opportunities that support college readiness and academic achievement. The school’s long-standing history contributes to its reputation within the Wake County educational landscape.
19. Heritage High School
Heritage High School ranks 68th within North Carolina’s public schools. The school serves students in Wake Forest with a comprehensive academic program.
Students can enroll in Advanced Placement coursework and take AP exams. The school also offers a Gifted and Talented program for high-achieving students.
Heritage High School provides two sports programs for student athletes. Various electives and clubs are available to students seeking extracurricular involvement.
The school’s mission focuses on empowering students to live with integrity, purpose, and achievement. They provide differentiated educational approaches to meet diverse student needs.
Heritage High School maintains a relatively calm environment with minimal disciplinary issues. The school community emphasizes academic growth and character development for all enrolled students.
20. Apex High School
Apex High School ranks 61st within North Carolina and serves grades 9-12 with approximately 2,772 students. The school operates within the Wake County Schools district.
Students can take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The average ACT score is 22, which reflects solid academic performance.
Apex High School ranks 24th among high schools in North Carolina, placing it in the 95th percentile statewide. The school performs above average compared to other public and charter schools in North Carolina with similar grade levels.
Within Wake County, Apex High School maintains competitive standings among the district’s high schools. The school receives a 9/10 rating from GreatSchools, indicating strong overall performance.
The school provides comprehensive educational opportunities for students in the Apex area. Its established reputation and academic offerings make it a notable institution within Wake County Schools.
21. Garner Magnet High School
Garner Magnet High School is a comprehensive public high school located in Garner, North Carolina. The school serves students in the Wake County Public School System.
The school offers the International Baccalaureate Programme of Study. Garner Magnet is one of five Wake County high schools providing this rigorous academic program.
Students can access Advanced Placement courses alongside the IB curriculum. The school employs over 120 teaching staff members to support its academic programs.
Garner Magnet ranks #10,205 in national high school rankings. SchoolDigger rates the school 2 stars out of 5 and ranks it 384th among 641 North Carolina high schools.
The school offers two sports programs for student athletes. Rankings are based on state-required test performance, graduation rates, and college-level course success.
22. Rolesville High School
Rolesville High School ranks #11,520 nationally according to U.S. News & World Report rankings. The school receives a 6/10 rating from GreatSchools, indicating average performance compared to other North Carolina public and charter schools.
Within Wake County, Rolesville High School ranks 16th among 21 ranked high schools. The school performs worse than 69.7% of high schools statewide.
The school maintains a mission to provide relevant and engaging education while graduating students who are collaborative, creative, and effective communicators. Rolesville High School ranks 5th out of 51 schools for best high schools for athletes in Wake County.
The school receives a 5 out of 10 rating for school quality compared to North Carolina, performing better than 40.9% of all state schools.
23. North Raleigh Magnet High School
North Raleigh Magnet High School serves students in the Wake County Public School System with specialized academic programs. The school focuses on preparing students for college and career success through rigorous coursework.
Students can choose from multiple magnet programs designed to match their interests and career goals. The school offers advanced placement courses and opportunities for dual enrollment with local colleges.
The campus provides modern facilities and technology to support student learning. Teachers work with small class sizes to provide individualized attention and support.
North Raleigh Magnet High School maintains strong graduation rates and college readiness scores. Students regularly participate in extracurricular activities including sports, clubs, and academic competitions.
The school’s location in north Raleigh provides students with access to internships and partnerships with local businesses and organizations.
24. Wakefield High School
Wakefield High School serves students in Raleigh as part of the Wake County public school system. The school maintains its commitment to preparing students for graduation and future success.
According to state rankings, Wakefield performs above average compared to other North Carolina public and charter schools. The school ranks 9th among 21 high schools within Wake County specifically.
GreatSchools gives Wakefield High an 8 out of 10 rating for its academic performance. The school ranks better than 64% of high schools statewide in North Carolina.
Wakefield High School is located adjacent to Wakefield Elementary and Wakefield Middle School in Raleigh. This creates a connected educational community for families in the area.
The school focuses on maintaining high learning standards across all grade levels. Students receive preparation for both academic achievement and becoming productive community members after graduation.
25. Millbrook Magnet Elementary (And Beyond)
Millbrook Magnet Elementary stands as a testament to Wake County’s commitment to specialized education programs. The school received the Donald R. Waldrip Magnet School of Merit Award of Excellence from Magnet Schools of America.
This recognition places Millbrook among the top magnet schools nationwide. The award highlights the school’s success in delivering specialized programming within the public education framework.
The elementary school focuses on environmental connections as its core theme. Students receive instruction across all content areas through hands-on environmental learning opportunities that connect local and global issues.
Millbrook operates as part of Wake County’s broader magnet school network. These specialized programs help fill under-enrolled schools while providing families with educational choice options beyond traditional neighborhood assignments.
The school’s success demonstrates how magnet programs can elevate educational quality within public school systems.
26. Lincoln Heights Magnet Elementary (And Beyond)
Lincoln Heights Environmental Connections Magnet Elementary School in Fuquay-Varina demonstrates the quality of Wake County’s magnet school programs. The school received the Elementary Magnet School Merit Award of Excellence in 2025.
This recognition from Magnet Schools of America designates Lincoln Heights as the top elementary magnet school in the nation. The award highlights the school’s environmental focus and academic excellence.
Wake County’s magnet school success influences high school programs throughout the district. Students entering high schools bring advanced academic preparation and specialized learning experiences from magnet elementary programs.
The environmental connections curriculum at Lincoln Heights prepares students for STEM-focused high school programs. This foundation contributes to stronger performance in Wake County’s science and technology high school courses.
Principal Kelly Wilson and Magnet Coordinator Lauren Michel accepted the national recognition in 2025.
27. Enloe High School Magnet Programs
Enloe High School operates as a specialized magnet school within Wake County’s public education system. The school focuses on serving gifted and talented students through rigorous academic programming.
The institution offers two primary magnet programs. Students can pursue the Gifted & Talented program designed for academically advanced learners. Additionally, Enloe provides an International Baccalaureate program for college-bound students.
Advanced Placement coursework forms a significant component of the academic offerings. Students access numerous AP courses to earn college credit while completing high school requirements.
The magnet school serves approximately 2,600 students from across Wake County. Founded in 1962, Enloe was originally established as Raleigh’s first integrated high school before transitioning to its current magnet status.
The school maintains selective admission standards typical of magnet programs. This approach creates an academically focused environment that attracts high-achieving students countywide.
28. Wake Early College High School at NC State
Wake STEM Early College High School operates as a joint partnership between Wake County Public School System and NC State University. The school serves 282 students in grades 9-12 with a specialized focus on STEM education.
Located in Cary, this public magnet school maintains a small student-teacher ratio that supports individualized learning. The partnership with NC State’s College of Education provides students unique opportunities for college-level coursework.
The school ranks #10 within North Carolina and #372 nationally according to U.S. News rankings. Wake STEM has earned strong ratings with a Niche grade of A+ and a GreatSchools rating of 9 out of 10.
Students benefit from early college opportunities that allow them to earn college credits while completing high school requirements. The program prepares graduates for advanced STEM fields through rigorous academics and university partnerships.
29. Green Hope Advanced Placement Program
Green Hope High School offers extensive Advanced Placement coursework opportunities for its students. The school maintains a 56% AP exam participation rate among its student body.
Students can access multiple AP courses across various subject areas. The program allows students to earn college credit while completing their high school education.
The school’s AP program contributes to its strong academic reputation. Green Hope ranks 13th within North Carolina and holds the #555 position in national rankings.
AP exam registration occurs during the first semester for the following year’s testing. The 2026 AP exams will be administered on campus during designated testing periods.
The Advanced Placement program supports Green Hope’s recognition as one of the top STEM high schools in North Carolina. Students benefit from rigorous academic preparation through these college-level courses.
30. Cary Academy International Baccalaureate Program
Cary Academy operates as a private independent school in Cary, North Carolina. The institution focuses on discovery, innovation, and collaboration as core educational principles.
The school maintains a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for higher education.
Cary Academy’s IB program provides students with an internationally recognized educational framework. The program emphasizes critical thinking and global perspectives.
The school has established a strong reputation for college preparation. A significant percentage of graduates continue to prestigious universities including Ivy League institutions and Duke University.
The academy serves the Wake County community through its comprehensive educational approach. Students engage in collaborative learning environments that foster intellectual growth.
The International Baccalaureate program at Cary Academy combines traditional academic rigor with innovative teaching methods. This approach prepares students for success in competitive college admissions processes.
What Makes Wake County High Schools Stand Out
Wake County high schools distinguish themselves through rigorous academic programs that include extensive Advanced Placement offerings and specialized STEM initiatives. The district fosters innovation through diverse extracurricular opportunities and maintains strong commitments to creating inclusive educational environments.
Academic Excellence and Advanced Programs
Wake County Schools ranks 15th nationally among public school districts according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This ranking reflects the district’s commitment to academic rigor and college preparation.
Advanced Placement Programs form the backbone of academic excellence across Wake County high schools. Students participate in AP courses at high rates, with many schools offering 20+ AP subjects ranging from calculus and physics to foreign languages and arts.
The district’s College Readiness Index scores consistently exceed state averages. Schools like Green Hope High School achieve particularly strong results due to their location in affluent areas and selective enrollment patterns.
STEM Innovation drives many specialized programs throughout the district. Students access engineering pathways, computer science tracks, and biotechnology courses that prepare them for technical careers and university studies.
Wake County high schools maintain graduation rates above 85% across most campuses. The combination of strong academic support systems and diverse course offerings helps students meet diploma requirements while pursuing individual interests.
Innovative Extracurricular Activities
Wake County high schools offer extensive extracurricular programs that extend learning beyond traditional classroom settings. These activities help students develop leadership skills and explore career interests.
Competitive Academic Teams include debate squads, math olympiads, and science bowls that regularly advance to state and national competitions. Students participate in Model UN, mock trial, and academic decathlon programs.
Arts Programs encompass theater productions, concert bands, jazz ensembles, and visual arts exhibitions. Many schools maintain award-winning marching bands and drama departments that perform at regional festivals.
Career and Technical Education programs provide hands-on learning in fields like automotive technology, culinary arts, and digital media production. Students earn industry certifications alongside their high school diplomas.
Community Service Initiatives connect students with local nonprofits and civic organizations. These partnerships create meaningful volunteer opportunities while building college application portfolios.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
Wake County Schools serves one of North Carolina’s most diverse student populations. The district implements programs that celebrate different backgrounds while ensuring equitable educational opportunities.
Multicultural Programming includes heritage month celebrations, international festivals, and cultural exchange opportunities. Students learn about global perspectives through language immersion programs and sister school partnerships.
Equity Support Systems provide additional resources for students from various socioeconomic backgrounds. Free tutoring services, college application assistance, and scholarship information help level academic playing fields.
Special Needs Accommodation ensures students with disabilities receive appropriate educational support. Individualized education plans and assistive technologies help all students access curriculum content effectively.
The district’s English Language Learner Programs serve students from numerous countries and language backgrounds. Dedicated ESL teachers provide language support while students transition into mainstream academic courses.
Navigating Admissions and Enrollment
Wake County Public School System offers both traditional zoned enrollment and specialized magnet programs with competitive admission processes. The district requires specific documentation and follows structured timelines for both options.
Magnet School Opportunities
WCPSS operates multiple magnet programs that provide specialized educational pathways beyond traditional neighborhood schools. These schools of choice focus on specific academic areas like STEM, arts, or international studies.
Application Process:
- Applications typically open in late fall for the following school year
- Students must submit applications through the district’s online portal
- Most programs require essays, transcripts, and recommendation letters
Selection Criteria:
Magnet schools use various selection methods including:
- Academic performance and GPA requirements
- Standardized test scores
- Portfolio submissions for arts programs
- Lottery systems when applications exceed capacity
The district prioritizes diversity and uses weighted selection factors. Transportation may be limited depending on the magnet location and student’s home address.
Open Enrollment Guidelines
Standard enrollment in Wake County follows neighborhood school assignments based on residential addresses. The district requires specific documentation to verify residency and student eligibility.
Required Documentation:
- Proof of residence (lease agreement, utility bills, or property deed)
- Student’s birth certificate
- Immunization records
- Previous school transcripts
Enrollment Contact:
Parents can reach the enrollment office at (919) 533-7169 or cie@wcpss.net. The main office is located at 5625 Dillard Drive, Suite 1300, Cary, NC 27518.
Key Deadlines:
Enrollment begins in March for the following school year. Late enrollments are accepted but may result in limited school choice options or temporary placements.
