What Are Magnet Schools? Performance Data & How to Get In
Published March 24, 2026 · School Type Guide
Magnet schools are one of the best-kept options in public education. They offer specialized programs in STEM, arts, languages, and more — completely free. But do they actually produce better outcomes? Here's what the data shows.
How Magnet Schools Work
Unlike traditional public schools, which serve a geographic attendance zone, magnet schools draw students from across a district or region. They were originally created in the 1960s-70s as a desegregation tool — offering specialized programs to attract diverse student bodies voluntarily.
Today, there are approximately 3,500 magnet schools in the US, serving over 3 million students. They span all levels — elementary, middle, and high school — and offer specializations ranging from STEM and performing arts to Montessori and International Baccalaureate programs.
Top-Performing Magnet Schools
| Rank | School | Location | DataScore |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Woodbridge Academy Magnet School | Woodbridge, NJ | 71/100 |
| 2 | Morehouse Magnet School | Bastrop, LA | 69/100 |
| 3 | East Brunswick Magnet School | East Brunswick, NJ | 67/100 |
| 4 | Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School | Montgomery, AL | 66/100 |
| 5 | Kittredge Magnet School | Atlanta, GA | 66/100 |
| 6 | Edison Academy Magnet School | Edison, NJ | 66/100 |
| 7 | Mandela International Magnet (mims) | Santa Fe, NM | 66/100 |
| 8 | Booker T Washington Magnet High School | Montgomery, AL | 65/100 |
| 9 | Academic Magnet High | North Charleston, SC | 65/100 |
| 10 | Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School | Montgomery, AL | 64/100 |
See the full top 100 magnet schools ranking.
How to Apply
- Find magnets in your district — Use our search tool and filter by magnet status
- Check application deadlines — Most districts open magnet applications in January-February
- Prepare for the process — Lottery-based magnets require only an application; selective magnets may require exams, auditions, or portfolios
- Consider transportation — Since magnets draw from across the district, busing may be provided but commute times can be longer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a magnet school?
A magnet school is a public school that offers a specialized curriculum — such as STEM, performing arts, international studies, or career-technical education. They draw students from across a district through an application or lottery process rather than neighborhood assignment.
Are magnet schools free?
Yes. Magnet schools are public schools funded by tax dollars. There is no tuition. However, some may charge fees for materials or activities, similar to traditional public schools.
How do you get into a magnet school?
Most magnet schools use a lottery system for admission. Some selective-admission magnets require entrance exams, auditions (for arts programs), or portfolio reviews. Application windows typically open in January-February for the following school year.
Do magnet schools perform better than regular schools?
On average, magnet schools score slightly higher than traditional public schools in DataScore comparisons. However, the variation is wide — the best magnets significantly outperform, while some underperform. Selective-admission magnets tend to score highest, partly due to their admissions screening.