Admissions
We’re glad you’re here. If you’re exploring options for your child, we’re happy to help. OCCA is a tuition-free public charter school offering a classical education with modern clarity. This page explains how to visit, apply, and what to expect during open enrollment.
Why OCCA
Scholarship
Serious learning, clearly taught
Moral character
Habits that shape the whole day
Civic virtue
Respectful dialogue and responsibility
Families choose OCCA because they want more than academics alone. They want a school that teaches students to think clearly, communicate well, and grow in responsibility.
OCCA’s classical approach is content-rich and purposeful. In a typical classroom, you may see students reading closely, discussing ideas respectfully, and writing clear responses with teacher guidance. Students build strong foundations, develop sound reasoning, and learn to express ideas with clarity and respect, all within a school culture shaped by consistent routines, warm relationships, and high expectations.
How to apply
Step 1
Explore OCCA’s academics and culture to see if we’re the right fit.
Step 2
Schedule a tour or attend an info session to see the classical model in action.
Step 3
Submit an application during the open enrollment window.
Open enrollment and lottery
OCCA welcomes applications from all students. During the open enrollment period, families submit applications for the coming school year. If applications exceed available seats in a grade level, OCCA conducts a public random drawing to determine the order in which enrollment offers are made.
- Families receive enrollment offers based on available seats.
- If a grade level is full, applicants are placed on a waitlist by grade.
- When a seat becomes available, the next family on the waitlist is contacted.
Waitlist response window
Families typically have a limited time window to accept an offer before the next family is contacted.
Tuition and funding
OCCA is a tuition-free public charter school. There is no tuition to attend. Families may be responsible for standard personal items (such as uniforms or supplies), depending on grade level and program requirements.
Grade placement guidance
Grade placement is based on state eligibility rules and the student’s date of birth. Each year, OCCA publishes a grade placement chart that reflects current requirements (including TK and Kindergarten eligibility rules).
- Families receive enrollment offers based on available seats.
- If a grade level is full, applicants are placed on a waitlist by grade.
- When a seat becomes available, the next family on the waitlist is contacted.
Visit OCCA
A visit is the best way to understand OCCA. You’ll see classroom routines, experience the campus culture, and have time for questions.
- A guided campus walkthrough
- Growth measures (where applicable)
- An overview of academics and student life
- Next steps for applying
Frequently asked questions
Is OCCA a private school?
No. Orange County Classical Academy (OCCA) is a tuition-free public charter school. There is no tuition to attend OCCA.
Who can apply?
OCCA is open to all students who meet the applicable California public charter school enrollment requirements. Admission is not based on academic ability, prior achievement, or entrance testing. Families interested in attending OCCA must submit an application during the enrollment period.
When is open enrollment?
Open enrollment for OCCA takes place between the first Monday through the last weekday of February.
What if more students apply than there are seats?
If the number of applicants for a grade level exceeds the number of available seats, OCCA conducts a public random lottery in accordance with its charter and enrollment policies. Students who are not offered a seat through the lottery are placed on a waitlist in the order established by the lottery.
How will I know if my child is offered a seat?
Families will be notified using the contact information provided on their application. If your child is offered a seat, you will receive instructions and deadlines for accepting the offer and completing registration. Please be sure your contact information is accurate and check your email regularly during the enrollment period.
Does OCCA support students with learning needs?
Yes. As a public charter school, OCCA welcomes and serves all students. Our Student Services Team works with families and teachers to identify students’ individual needs and coordinate appropriate support. OCCA serves English learners and students with 504 Plans, health plans, and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Designated instructional staff provide intervention, remediation, and reteaching, while our Special Education Program provides individualized services for students with IEPs. Families are encouraged to submit relevant educational records during registration so our team can plan appropriate support for their child.
Do students take standardized tests?
Yes. As a California public charter school, OCCA participates in state-required assessments. Depending on the student’s grade level, these may include the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) and other assessments required by the California Department of Education.
Do you offer before/after school care?
Yes. OCCA offers before and after school care for enrolled students. Program hours, availability, eligibility, fees, and registration information will vary by school year. Please contact the after school office for current program details.
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