STEM-Focused High Schools | Atlanta

After middle school, STEM-focused public high schools can offer exciting opportunities for your child’s personal and academic growth.

Why should my child go to a STEM-focused school?
At a STEM-focused school, students gain exposure to STEM concepts through hands-on learning experiences, which prepares them for college and can pave the way to high-paying careers in STEM fields. Students will build foundational STEM knowledge, strengthen their critical thinking skills, and join communities of peers and mentors who are passionate about STEM. With a supportive environment and opportunities to prepare for college and career, a STEM-focused school can lay the groundwork for your child’s future success.

How do I learn about STEM-focused schools for my child? 
As you navigate the process of finding the right school for your child, make sure to prioritize what matters most to you. Here are some questions you might consider when applying:

  • Is it close to my home?
  • How supportive and diverse is the learning community?
  • Do they have programs connected to my child’s interests?
  • Does the school require an admissions test?

The Atlanta Office of Charter & Partner Schools offers an overview of schools that may specialize in STEM and serves as a good starting point to learn more about STEM schools. Their website highlights schools that are a part of the Apply APS Charter program, a centralized application that lets you apply to multiple schools, as well as schools that must be applied to individually.

When do I start the application process? 
Applications generally must be submitted December of the current school year in order to apply for the following school year. If you miss that window, lotteries may be open in January.

STEM-focused middle and high schools


Atlanta Smart Academy (Southwest): Founded in 2021, Atlanta Smart Academy is a publicly-funded state public charter school serving 5th – 8th graders. Smart Academy integrates science, math, and the arts into all aspects of learning and emphasizes project-based learning.
Program highlights: With over 200 students, Smart Academy is expanding to accommodate more students and families… Read more >

Centennial Academy (Queens): Centennial Academy serves K – 8th graders and focuses on a curriculum that involves science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM). Additionally, the school uses design thinking to help students become lifelong problem solvers.
Program highlights: Centennial Academy is committed to enrolling students who reside within the Centennial-mandated zone, but the school… Read more >

The Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology (Gwinnett): Founded in 2007, the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology is a charter school with a lottery-based admissions program. As its name suggests, Gwinnett specializes in STEM. Program Highlights: Gwinnett offers special programs for each year. 9th graders have a speakers series, 10th graders engage… Read more >

Other STEM-focused schools

The B.E.S.T. Academy at the Thomas W. Dortch Jr Institute
Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Academy
Carver Early College H.S.
Frederick Douglass H.S.
Midtown H.S.
South Atlanta H.S.
Booker T. Washington H.S.