Advanced Programs in High Schools

Beginning with the application process for school year 2026-2027 there is now one common application that students will complete to apply to any of the high school magnet programs.  No need to complete multiple applications.  

The Office of Advanced Programs will notify families of their student's acceptance via U. S. Mail.  Each family will receive one mailing that contains individual  acceptance or non-placement  letters to each school that they have applied to.  This will allow students and families to evaluate all their placement options all at once. 

These mailings will be sent in early-March with acceptance deadlines of mid-March.

Check out this document for Frequently Asked Questions about Advanced Placement Course

• Academic Leadership Academy (ALA) - provides students the opportunity to earn college credit and build leadership skills.
• Advanced Placement (AP) - available to all students in every high school, course availability varies in each building, students can earn college credit with performance on the AP Exam, successful students meet some prerequisite criteria, such as specific reading level and/or coursework
• AP Capstone - this pathway focuses on critical thinking, research and communication skills.
• AP International Diploma - this pathway is designed for students with a global perspective. 
• AVID - a 4 year, in school academic support and college readiness system that prepares students for college eligibility and success.
• BISFA - a premier public arts high school offering a unique and immersive education for students passionate about the arts.
• Honors - high school classes designed to prepare students for AP coursework, ability and/or performance measures are utilized for placement
• International Baccalaureate (IB) - provides students the opportunity to pursue a rigorous pre-university course of study. 
• Maryland AP Option - this flexible pathway allows students to choose AP courses across various content areas.
• Upward Bound - a year round college preparatory program in collaboration with Hagerstown Community College