GCS Magnet Application Process

Greenville County Schools (GCS) 

Magnet Application Process

You can access GCS Magnet Academies information by clicking here.

When Can I Apply to a GCS Magnet School?

The first GCS Magnet Academy application window for the 2026-2027 school year opens on November 10, 2025.  The first application window closes at 4:00 p.m. on November 25, 2025.

Click here to see GCS Magnet Application Round Schedule

How Do I Apply for J. L. Mann's Magnet Program?

Before beginning your Magnet application please review the FAQs linked below.

Click here to see GCS Magnet Academies Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

GCS Magnet Academies Frequently Asked Questions in Spanish

Parents and their students must apply to the magnet program through the GCS Parent Backpack Portal.  Parents of students not yet enrolled in a GCS school can create a new account by clicking here.  Because they do not have access to Backpack, the magnet coordinator will not be able to assist you with Backpack.  

Once in your Backpack account, parents will:

1. Select "Programs" from the column on the left.

2. Select "Apply to a Program."  Available programs will show on the screen.

3. Select "Apply" beside Magnet Academies to begin the magnet application process.

Parents will be able to apply for multiple magnet academies in the online system, but they will be able to submit the application only once.  Parents should make sure to select all magnet academies for which their student desires to apply and complete all sections of each magnet application before submitting.

Paper applications will not be available at the school.  If a paper magnet application is needed due to technology issues, the parent must contact the GCS Planning and Demographics Department (on the district website or at 864-355-7265) to request one.  

All incoming magnet freshmen at J. L. Mann High School will participate in the NewTech@Mann program for their first year.  If you have any questions regarding the NewTech@Mann program, please contact Ms. Sarah-Burke White, NewTech@Mann Director at (864) 355-0820 or sbwhite@greenville.k12.sc.us.