Admissions Process & Application
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Ready to Apply to Ellington? Let’s get Started!
The admissions process for Ellington is as easy as 1-2-3-4-5:
STEP 1. Online application – Available in December 2022
Applications to Duke Ellington School of the Arts and all other DCPS and DC public charter high schools are submitted via the MySchoolDC website. For more information on the application process, see MySchoolDC.org. Please note that there are no paper applications – all applications must be submitted online through the MySchoolDC.org site.
The online application will request the email addresses of three people, in order for them to submit recommendations. After the student’s application is completed and submitted, these individuals will receive an email requesting that they complete the recommendation.
Upload a photo of the student, report cards, test scores and short essay(s) on why you believe Ellington and the art department are a right fit for you.
If you have any issues submitting application materials, contact the MySchoolDC hotline at 202-888-6336 or email them at info@myschooldc.org.
STEP 2. Audition – 2022-23 AUDITION SCHEDULE
STEP 3. Family Interview – Late February or March 2023
The family interview is the second to last step. We’ve become acquainted artistically – this is the chance for us to get to know the whole you better. Family interviews are held with the applying student and at least one supporting adult, one of the admissions team members, staff from the relevant arts department, one of our administrators or Principal. Interviews are approximately 20 minutes long. They give us a chance to get to know each other better and to see if Ellington seems to be a mutual fit.
STEP 4. Admissions Committee Final Review
After your family interview is completed the Admissions Committee (Principal, Director of External Affairs, Administrations, Teachers and/or Department Chairs) review your total application and make a final admissions determination.
Official decisions are only made at the end of five rounds and are confirmed through MySchoolDC and an official welcome letter from Ellington Admissions with next steps regarding enrollment. MySchoolDC Lottery Results will be announced in April 2023.
All non-DC residents, who may be extremely qualified are subject to space-availability.
Duke Ellington School of the Arts does not discriminate in the admissions process based on an applicant’s disability in conformance with the District of Columbia Human Rights Act. Admissions candidates who have passed their audition are requested to submit their IEP or 504 Plan prior to testing in order that we may be sure to give an applicant their appropriate testing accommodation.
Have questions? Email the Admissions Office at ADMISSIONS@ELLINGTONARTS.ORG.
