Admission FAQs

When can I apply for the 2026–2027 academic year?

The Academy for Science and Design will begin accepting applications on October 6, 2025. 

What grade levels does ASD serve?

ASD serves New Hampshire students in grades 5–12.

• School hours: 8:15 AM – 3:30 PM

• Student drop-off begins at 7:45 AM

What does it mean that ASD is a chartered public school?

A chartered public school is a public school that operates under a specific mission and charter, rather than being part of a local school district.

• Tuition-free for New Hampshire residents

• Non-sectarian and independently operated

• Focused on innovation and specialized educational goals

ASD’s charter is available on our website. For more information, visit the New Hampshire Alliance for Public Charter Schools or the NH Department of Education.

Why would I choose to attend ASD?

ASD is committed to providing a world-class STEM education. We aim to:

• Inspire students with a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics

• Support active, individualized learning

• Prepare students for academic and career pathways in STEM fields

ASD fosters a tight-knit community of curious, motivated learners dedicated to personal growth and academic excellence.

How do I know if ASD is the right fit for me?

ASD is ideal for students who:

• Seek academic challenge and rigor

• Have a strong interest in STEM subjects

• Thrive in a community of like-minded, driven peers

Many ASD students travel long distances to be part of our unique learning environment.

Is ASD affiliated with the Nashua School District?

No. While ASD is located in Nashua, NH, it operates independently from the Nashua School District.
However:

• Nashua residents may receive district-provided transportation

• ASD typically aligns its academic calendar with Nashua schools

In 2025–2026, ASD enrolled students from 32 different NH school districts.

Does ASD charge tuition?

No. ASD is tuition-free for New Hampshire residents.
However, nominal fees may apply for optional services or activities.

How is ASD funded?

ASD is a public charter school funded through the state portion of adequacy aid.
Local tax dollars remain in a student’s home district. On average, ASD receives about 45% of the funding received by traditional NH public schools.

Since ASD is a STEM school, are other subjects still emphasized?

Absolutely. ASD provides a well-rounded education, including:

• A rigorous Humanities program

• World Languages: German, Latin, and Spanish

• Integrated learning across all disciplines

What does it mean to attend an academically rigorous school?

ASD students take on advanced coursework and a higher level of academic commitment.

• Homework expectations are typically more demanding than at other schools

• Students are expected to show discipline, initiative, and organization

• The curriculum prepares students for college and future careers

What AP (Advanced Placement) courses are currently offered?

• AP Statistics

• AP Physics C

• AP Biology

• AP Chemistry

• AP Environmental Science

• AP Psychology

• AP Computer Science A

• AP Language and Composition

• AP U.S. Government & Politics

• AP Seminar

• AP Research (offered in 2026-2027)

Does ASD offer the AP Seminar and Research Certificate and/or AP Capstone Diploma?

Yes, ASD is currently beginning a multi-year rollout of both the certificate and diploma. AP capstone is an optional program for students who elect to take multiple AP courses. Students who receive a score of 3 or higher on the AP Seminar, AP Research, and any other four AP exams qualify for an “AP Capstone Diploma” award.  Students who score a 3 or higher on AP Seminar and AP Research qualify for an “AP Seminar and Research Certificate."

What does "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) mean at ASD?

ASD participates in a BYOD initiative, asking families to provide a laptop or device for student use.

• Supports 21st-century learning

• Enhances personalized, technology-driven instruction

• Supplements ASD’s three on-campus computer labs

Participation in BYOD is strongly encouraged to ensure access to digital resources.

What athletic teams are available at ASD?

• Middle School Cross-Country

Students may participate in sports offered by their home school district if not available at ASD. We have students that participate in a variety of sports at both the middle school and high school levels for their home district including: football, soccer, basketball, swimming, ice hockey, baseball, lacrosse, and track and field.

What extracurricular activities are available?

ASD offers a wide range of clubs and activities that vary year-to-year. Some of the clubs being offered in 2025-2026 include:

• MathCounts, High School Science Quiz Bowl, Granite State Challenge

• Student Council, National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), National Honor Society (NHS)

• Theatre, Chorus, Film Club, Design Club, Craft Club

• DECA, Mock Trial, Ethics Bowl

• Chess Club, Lego Club

• Dungeons and Dragons (Middle and High School), Opportunity X, Magic the Gathering Club

• Red Cross Club, Green Thumb Club

• Culture Club, Muslim Association

• Ski Club, Sports & Rec Club

What are the qualifications of ASD faculty and staff?

ASD staff come from both education and STEM industry backgrounds, bringing diverse experience and expertise.

• All staff must pass state-required background checks

• ASD meets all NH Department of Education charter school regulations

How many students attend ASD, and in which grades?

For the 2025–2026 school year, ASD has approximately 675 students enrolled in grades 5–12.

What is the typical class size at ASD?

• Class ratios vary depending on grade level

• Middle school classes are 24 students or fewer

• High school classes range from 4 to 20 students, with some lecture-style classes ranging from 21 to 40 students

Can any student attend ASD?

ASD follows NH charter school admission laws.

• Only New Hampshire residents are eligible for the lottery

• Out-of-state students may be admitted only if there are unfilled spots, per RSA 194-B

Is transportation provided to ASD?

• Nashua residents receive transportation from the Nashua School District

• Families outside of Nashua often carpool, which is a popular option

What is the Academy for Science and Design Educational Foundation (ASDEF)?

ASDEF is ASD’s Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) and a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
It supports:

• Family events and community engagement

• Teacher and student club support

• Fundraising for school initiatives

Who founded ASD?

ASD was founded by a group of community leaders and educators committed to STEM excellence.
Notable founding members and supporters include:

• Dr. Michael Fishbein (Daniel Webster College)

• Dr. Karen Graham (UNH)

• Patricia Humphrey (M.S. Ed.)

• Lucille Jordan (Nashua Community College)

• Shanthi Nair, Thomas Popik, Jennifer Starr (ASD parents)

• Dr. Susan Hollins, Chris Franklin, Regina Rubery (early administrators)

Their vision helped shape ASD into the thriving school it is today.