Arts are often not a core part of curriculum the way that subjects like math and science are, so some students opt for magnet schools to allow them to more fully dedicate themselves to the training needed for their craft. Magnet schools for the arts are known for having a strong academic program paired with specialized classes in a variety of arts disciplines such as vocals, dance, visual art, theater and film. If you’re considering an arts-based magnet school in Pennsylvania for your child’s education, here are some key things to know.
What is a magnet school?
Named for their natural ability to attract students of all different areas, socioeconomic backgrounds and cultures, the first magnet schools in the 1970s were described as being a “magnet” for these students. Today, there are 4,000+ magnet schools that educate more than 3.5 million students across the U.S., according to Magnet Schools of America.
Notably, though they are public schools, many are accessible to any student, regardless of zip code. Because of their accessibility — both with cost and location — they are also known for having a diverse student body that gives students a more accurate representation of the real world.
How do you apply? Does everyone get accepted?
Because they are free and accessible to many students, magnet schools often fill up fast. To accommodate, schools tend to use a lottery system for applications to ensure fair entry. Some may also require an audition process depending on the discipline.
Magnet Schools in Philadelphia
Public School Review names 54 magnet public schools serving 26,531 students in Pennsylvania in 2026. Here are just a handful of the magnet arts schools and programs available locally:
Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush | Philadelphia: Rush’s arts curriculum is deeply invested in the idea of promoting social justice through the arts and bringing arts education to a diverse community of students. Prospective students are required to audition for the discipline they are interested in pursuing.
Bucks County Montessori Charter School | Fairless Hills: Though not technically a magnet school, the Bucks County Montessori Charter School regularly integrates music, visual arts and theater arts into everyday learning. Students are sorted into age groups rather than specific grades (so older students can mentor younger students)and chosen through a lottery of all submitted applications.
Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP) Philadelphia: A magnet program through the School District of Philadelphia, GAMP prepares students in fifth through 12th grades to pursue musical performance professionally. Applicants must audition — all students are required to do a vocal audition, and students who play an instrument will have to prepare a piece to play.
The Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) | Philadelphia: CAPA provides instruction in seven different arts disciplines, including the performing arts, visual arts, creative writing and media production. Students must apply through the School District of Philadelphia portal, after which they may be invited to audition.
Find a list of the best Pennsylvania magnet schools at publicschoolreview.com/pennsylvania/magnet-public-schools.
Lindsay VanAsdalan also contributed to this article.
