Public school in the US is free from kindergarten to grade 12 (about age 5 to 18). Your child can start any time of year, even in the middle of a semester.
Your child's right to school
In 1982 the US Supreme Court decided (Plyler v. Doe) that a public school may not refuse a child because of the child's or the parents' immigration status.
A school may not refuse your child because you do not have a Social Security number. If a form asks for one, leave it empty or ask "Is this optional?"
Some states have debated laws that ask families about status at enrollment. Your child's right to attend stays the same.
Children on dependent visas (H-4, L-2, J-2, F-2, E) may attend public school. A child who is in the US as a tourist (B-2 or ESTA) may not enroll as a regular student.
Most children go to the school assigned to your home address. This area is called the school zone or attendance zone. Find it on your school district website (the local office that runs the public schools) with a "school locator" or "boundary" tool. Some districts also offer charter schools (free public schools with their own rules) and magnet schools (special programs, often by lottery).
Proof of age: birth certificate or passport. A translated copy helps.
Proof of address: a lease, a utility bill or a bank letter with your name and US address. Many districts ask for two.
Vaccination record (shot record). Bring the original from home and an English translation if you can.
Your child's last school records or report cards, translated if possible. They help with placement.
Your ID and phone number.
Search "[your city] school district enrollment". Many districts start online, then ask you to visit a registration center or the school office.
Fill in the forms. Most districts include a home language survey: a few questions about the languages spoken at home. Answer honestly; it decides if your child gets English support.
The school may test your child's English and math to place them.
Ask: "What day can my child start?", "Which bus stop?" and "How do I see grades online?"
Living with friends or in a temporary place?
If you have no fixed home yet (staying with relatives, in a motel or a shelter), a federal law called McKinney-Vento says the school must enroll your child right away, even without all documents. Ask for the district's "homeless liaison". The name sounds strong, but it is a normal service for families in transition.
Each state sets which vaccines a child needs for school. If your child is missing some, the school usually gives you a short time to catch up. Free or low-cost vaccines are available at county health departments. This differs by state; see In your state below.
Waiting until you have a long lease. Enroll as soon as you have any address.
Leaving foreign school records at home. They decide your child's grade and classes.
Thinking you must pay. Public school, books and the bus are free. Small fees for trips or clubs can usually be waived.