HISD has been an open-choice district for more than 40 years. This means that students are not limited to their neighborhood — or zoned — schools, but may apply to the district’s many magnet programs. These include language-immersion schools, Vanguard/GT schools, STEM programs, Montessori, International Baccalaureate, dual language, fine arts, and more. For a complete list of magnet programs, details on how to apply, and deadlines, please see HISD School Choice.