Start with the questions that change the plan

Banneker accepts applications for Grade 9 and Grade 10 only. DC public school enrollment requires proof of DC residency. Check My School DC's residency page for what counts and for families who do not live in the District.

Admission is based on meeting specific criteria, not a random lottery. The My School DC lottery is where eligible applicants are matched.

Banneker's admissions process is application review, an in-person on-site essay, and a family interview. No entrance exam is listed.

Two essays are required: one submitted online in the My School DC application (character limit 5,000), and one written in person on site. After the interview, applicants write a prompt on paper on site. It gives the panel more information on critical and creative thinking and writing, and earns no additional points outside the interview.

Only grades are reviewed. Scale: all A's or A's and B's = 10 points, A's, B's and one C = 6, more than one C = 4, C average = 2. The rubric says successful applicants typically have all A's and B's on both reviewed report cards, and that applicants with lower grades have found success with the right academic support. Banneker may contact counselors for grade conversion scales, and treats all applicants, including international students, the same way.

Recommendation content and scores are confidential. Applicants can check recommendation status in My School DC and send reminders. A missing recommendation receives zero points.

The My School DC high school application is due February 1, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Families can edit a submitted application any time before February 1, 2027. Selective high school recommendations are due February 8, 2027 by 5:00 p.m., after the application deadline.

The rubric we reviewed says it is in effect for the SY25-26 and SY26-27 admissions cycles. It does not name the SY27-28 cycle, which is the one for fall 2027 entry.

No. BannekerPrep by EduAvenues is an independent service, not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Benjamin Banneker Academic High School. Check every requirement and date on the school's own website before you apply.

The admissions facts on this site were last checked against the school's published pages on November 5, 2026. Schools can change requirements and dates at any time.