Frequently Asked Questions

A charter school is a tuition-free public school that operates independently from the local school district. Charter schools meet all federal, state, and local education, health, and safety requirements and are held accountable by an authorizer to meet high academic and operational standards. This oversight, combined with the flexibility to design curriculum and programs, helps schools provide a high-quality education for every student.

Yes. Grand River Prep is a public charter school, which means it's independent from the local district but follows all state education requirements and is open to all students.

Yes. Grand River Preparatory High School is a 9–12, tuition-free public charter school open to all students in the area. As a public school, we're funded the same way district schools are, so there's no cost to attend.

Grand River Preparatory High School is a public charter school open to all eligible students in grades 9–12. There are no entrance exams or interviews to apply. Visit our Admissions page to learn more about eligibility and the application process.

As a public school, we invite applications from all teens who reside in the state of Michigan and meet age requirements. See our Michigan Age Out Policy for specific high school age requirements.

A charter school shall not discriminate against or limit the admission of any student on any unlawful basis, including on the basis of ethnicity, national origin, gender, disability, intellectual ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, athletic ability, race, creed, religion or ancestry. A school may not require any action by a student or family (such as an admissions test, interview, essay, attendance at an information session, etc.) in order for an applicant to either receive or submit an application for admission to that school.

Complete your teen's online application right here on our website. If more students apply than there are seats available during Open Enrollment, a random lottery will be held. 

You can also apply after Open Enrollment closes. Those applications are considered in the order received, after all earlier applications have been processed.

When more students apply than we have available seats, we hold a random lottery to fill them. Siblings of currently enrolled students receive preference.

If more students apply than we have seats, we keep a waiting list. Movement is common as families' plans change, and we contact families as seats open. You'll receive monthly status updates on your child's position.

Yes. Students can apply at any point during high school. Our counselors review transcripts to determine which credits transfer and what your teen needs to graduate on time.

No. NHA partner schools do not use entrance exams, interviews, or essays as a condition of applying.

Students take core classes in English, math, science, and social studies, plus electives. Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment are available for students who want college-level work. See our Academics page for current course offerings.

Yes, three ways. Advanced Placement courses let students take a college-level exam for potential credit. Dual enrollment means taking actual college courses for credit while still in high school. And the Early Middle College Program gives students five years to earn an associate degree or certificate alongside their diploma, tuition-free.

Beyond state standards, NHA high schools set requirements with AP courses, college acceptance, and community service. See our College Counseling page for state and school-specific requirements.

Yes. Our free tutoring program gives students extra support in the subjects where they need it most.

Starting in ninth grade, college and career counselors work with students on goal-setting, applications, scholarships, and financial aid. Students leave with a plan for college, career training, military service, or the workforce.

100% of NHA high school graduates are accepted to a four-year college.

Transportation is not provided, so families are responsible for getting their teen to and from school each day. Call the school office at 616-261-1800 with questions.

See our Plan Your School Year page for class times.

Grand River Prep does not require uniforms, but students follow a dress code that helps create a focused learning environment. See our Dress Code page for details.

Yes. Grand River Prep offers a range of individual and team sports. See our Athletics page for sports offered. Academic eligibility requirements apply.

The best way to experience Grand River Preparatory High School is to see it in person. Visit our School Tour page or contact our school office to schedule a tour to walk through our school, meet our staff, and ask the questions that matter most to your family.

Use the messaging feature within the NHA app. Search for the staff member you want to reach and compose your message. Staff members typically respond within one business day during the school year.