For Alabama students drawn to the stage, the science lab, the challenges of cybersecurity and engineering or a future caring for patients, there are public schools where those interests can become part of their everyday education.
Applications for the 2027-28 school year are open at Alabama’s four specialty public schools, according to an announcement Monday from Governor Kay Ivey. The state-funded, tuition-free schools serve students from all 67 counties and offer opportunities to live on campus.
“Alabama’s future is sitting in our classrooms today, and I intend to make sure it is a bright one. Our next generation of artists, scientists, engineers and healthcare professionals deserve every opportunity to succeed,” Ivey said. “Our four specialty schools offer yet another quality option for families in all 67 counties, allowing our students to pursue their passions and turn their God-given talents into promising careers.”
Each school has a different focus, giving families several options to explore.
The Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham serves students in grades 7-12, with specialties in creative writing, dance, music, theatre arts, visual arts and math-science. Residential housing is available for students in grades 9-12.
Admission involves an application and audition or specialty evaluation, along with academic records, teacher recommendations and student essays.
In Mobile, the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science offers advanced studies in mathematics, science, computer science and the humanities. Students currently in eighth, ninth or 10th grade may apply for the upcoming school year.
The residential school provides tuition, room, board and meals at no cost. Its admissions review includes academic records, recommendations and other application materials, with interviews for selected applicants.
The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering in Huntsville integrates cyber technology and engineering throughout its academic subjects. Students can commute or live on campus, with tuition and housing provided at no cost.
Its admissions process considers academic records, recommendations, letters of interest and other materials, with interviews for selected applicants. Meal and activity fees apply, and financial assistance is available.
Students interested in caring for others have another option through the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences. The school combines high school coursework with hands-on healthcare learning, opportunities for college credit and clinical experiences to help students explore careers in nursing, allied health, biomedical sciences and medicine.
The school welcomed its first freshmen and sophomores in August at a temporary campus at the University of West Alabama in Livingston. Those students began their education ahead of a planned move to the school’s permanent campus in Demopolis for the 2027-28 school year.
Applicants are evaluated on academic readiness, interest in healthcare, recommendations and an interview. Leadership, teamwork, service and readiness to live away from home also help the school identify students suited to its program.
The healthcare school is the newest of the four institutions. Ivey signed legislation establishing it in 2024, following legislation creating the cyber technology and engineering school in 2018.
The schools are also working to strengthen their connections with one another. In April 2026, Ivey signed Senate Joint Resolution 84, encouraging collaboration, partnerships and information sharing among the four institutions, and administrators held their first joint meeting in August.
For families considering any of the four schools, the next step is to explore the programs and review the application requirements. Admission is selective, and while tuition is free, other fees and residential policies vary by school.
Each school’s admissions website provides information about applying, deadlines and opportunities to visit campus.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
