Families in Apollo Beach and Ruskin can begin applying for Hillsborough County magnet schools, school choice programs and virtual school enrollment for the 2027-28 school year at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Hillsborough County Public Schools announced the application period on X and Instagram on Oct. 9.

Applications for the first selection period will remain open through 11:59 p.m. Monday, Dec. 7, according to the district's official application schedule.

Parents must create a FOCUS Parent Portal account and link their children to the account before they can access the school choice application.

Magnet programs offer specialized education

The application period covers magnet schools, school choice options and Hillsborough Virtual School.

Programs offered across the district include science, technology, engineering and mathematics; performing arts; International Baccalaureate; career and technical education; and Montessori instruction.

Families can review programs based on their children's interests, grade levels and educational needs.

Dorothy C. York PK-8 Magnet School in Apollo Beach is among the district's magnet campuses. Families in Ruskin and surrounding South Hillsborough communities can also explore available programs outside their assigned neighborhood schools.

Not every program is available at every grade level or campus. Families should check individual school requirements and available options before applying.

The district highlighted its STEM programs during its October "STEMtober" campaign, promoting educational opportunities in engineering, robotics and computer science.

Families must create FOCUS accounts before applying

The district has encouraged families to set up their FOCUS Parent Portal accounts before the application window opens.

The application period begins at 5 p.m. Oct. 21 and closes at 11:59 p.m. Dec. 7.

The district has not yet announced when lottery results for the first 2027-28 application period will be available.

Families can prepare by visiting the FOCUS Parent Portal and reviewing the district's school choice and magnet programs.

For additional assistance, families can contact the district's Choice Information Line at 813-272-4692.