CPS requires three things to enroll your child:

1. Proof of your child's age (one of these):

• Original birth certificate (U.S. or foreign)
• Passport (U.S. or foreign)
• Visa, I-94, I-385, or U.S. State Department travel document
• Baptismal record (not accepted for preschool)

2. Proof of Chicago address (two of these):

• Utility bill from the last 90 days (gas, electric, water, cable, internet)
• Lease agreement or mortgage statement
• Official mail from a government agency
• Pay stub with Chicago address
• Voter registration card
• Vehicle registration or insurance card
• Library card
• Stamped U.S. Post Office change of address form
• ID from a government agency or foreign consulate (e.g., Matrícula Consular)

3. Immunization records

Your child needs to be up to date on required vaccines. If you don't have records yet, you can still enroll — but you'll need to provide them before the deadline. The school will tell you what's needed for your child's grade.

You also need a photo ID for yourself (the person enrolling the child). This can be a driver's license, state ID, passport, consulate ID, or any government-issued photo ID. The address on your ID does not need to match your current address.

CPS Parent Support Center General enrollment help · (773) 553-3772 CPS Language Services Interpretation in 35+ languages · (773) 553-1930 STLS Hotline — Students in Temporary Living Situations Immediate enrollment for homeless/unstable housing · (773) 553-2242 Chicago Early Learning Hotline Preschool enrollment · (312) 229-1690 CPS Newcomer & Refugee Student Services → Enrollment support for families arriving from abroad CPS Apply and Enroll Page → Official CPS enrollment information and school locator

Can my child go to school if we are undocumented?

Yes. Every child in Chicago has the right to free public education regardless of immigration status. This is federal law and Illinois state law. The school cannot ask about your status.

Do I need a Social Security Number to enroll my child?

No. If a form asks for an SSN, leave it blank or write "N/A." The school cannot refuse enrollment because you don't have one.

Will the school report me to ICE?

No. CPS does not collect immigration information and does not share student records with ICE. Chicago is a Welcoming City, and Illinois law protects students and families from immigration enforcement at schools.

My child doesn't speak English. Can they still enroll?

Yes. CPS provides English Learner support, bilingual programs, and Dual Language instruction. Your child will be assessed and placed in appropriate language support.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

You can use a passport, visa, I-94, or other travel document instead. If you have none of these, talk to the school — they can help.

Can I enroll my child mid-year?

Yes. You can enroll at any time during the school year. Contact the school directly or call the CPS Parent Support Center at (773) 553-3772.

What if we're living in a shelter?

Your child can be enrolled immediately, even without proof of address or immunization records. Contact the STLS hotline at (773) 553-2242 for help.

Can someone other than a parent enroll a child?

Yes. A legal guardian or temporary custodian can enroll a child with proof of guardianship. For unaccompanied youth, proof of guardianship is not required.

Is preschool available?

Yes. Chicago Early Learning offers free or low-cost preschool for children from birth to age 5. Call (312) 229-1690 or visit cps.edu/early-childhood. Preschool enrollment also requires proof of income.