Applying to Dual Language Immersion (DLI)

Dual Language Immersion Programs are offered at two option schools. Both schools follow the same high standard of excellence in terms of curriculum, staff, and the immersion experience provided to students. Students may choose to apply to the Dual Immersion Program at:

• Claremont Immersion Elementary School
• Escuela Key Elementary School

Apply Online: Students entering elementary school in Arlington may apply to enter the program at Claremont Immersion or Escuela Key. Interested incoming students can apply through the elementary option school application and lottery process.

The elementary option school application window is from February 1, 2024 to March 8th, 2024. 

Applications Open: Feb, 1 at 4 p.m.

Applications Close: March, 8 at 4 p.m.*

*Please note the application deadline is earlier than in previous years*

Elementary Grades 1 – 5 Lottery: April 11 from 1 – 3 p.m.

Elementary Grades 1- 5  receive lottery results: April 18 by the end of the day

Families must accept/decline the offer: By April 25 by 8 p.m.*

*Please note that families will have one week to accept or decline offers*

Dual Language Immersion Programs are offered at two option schools. Both schools follow the same high standard of excellence in terms of curriculum, staff, and the immersion experience provided to students. Students may choose to continue in the Dual Language Immersion Program at the secondary level at:

• Gunston Middle School
• Wakefield High School

Current Students

To apply, current students must complete an Intent to Return Form.

• Students already enrolled in the APS Elementary Dual Language Immersion Program at Claremont or Key Elementary, who would like to continue immersion at the secondary level, will need to complete an Intent to Return Form during the course selection period before transitioning to middle or high school.

New Students

Incoming new students must Apply and Complete a Proficiency Test.

• Students who are not already enrolled in the APS Elementary Dual Language Immersion Program will need to show that they have participated in a comparable immersion program in another school division OR have lived/been raised in a Spanish-speaking country.
• Those applicants will need to apply for admission to the program. If spots are available, students will need to complete and pass a proficiency test administered by the Office of English Learners.
• Students who pass and meet the required criteria will receive an acceptance letter.