When is the deadline for applications for Alma’s lottery?
Applications must be received by 5pm on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to check their email for a receipt confirmation email from Alma.
Will submitting multiple applications increase my child’s chances of being selected in the lottery?
No, please only submit one application per child. If duplicate applications are received for a child, both applications may both be rejected by our system.
May I submit another application for my child if I’m changing an answer, or selecting a different campus preference?
No, please only submit one application per child. Email us at [email protected] if you need to correct or update any information on your application.
Why does the application ask about enrolled siblings?
Siblings of scholars currently attending Alma receive preference in the lottery, meaning they go to the top of their grade’s accepted or waitlist.
Who qualifies as a sibling under Alma’s enrollment policy?
For the purpose of this policy, “siblings” are defined as children having a common parent, either biologically or legally through adoption.
What grades does Alma del Mar offer?
The Alma del Mar: Sarah D. Ottiwell Campus (located at 515 Belleville Avenue) offers grades K-8 with 50 scholars in each grade. This campus offers one point of entry: Kindergarten (50 seats). The Alma del Mar: Frederick Douglass Campus (located at 767 Church Street) offers grades K-8 with 50 scholars in each grade K-5 and 98 scholars in each grade 6-8. This campus offers two potential points of entry: Kindergarten (50 seats) and Sixth Grade (50 seats).
How do I enroll my child at Alma del Mar?
All admissions are based on a lottery. Every student from New Bedford who applies prior to the application deadline has an equal chance of acceptance.
Do I need to live in New Bedford for my child to be eligible?
You may apply to Alma del Mar if you live anywhere in Massachusetts. Children who live in New Bedford will receive priority over children who do not. Given that Alma del Mar has a long waitlist, it is unlikely that children from outside New Bedford will have the opportunity to attend Alma del Mar.
Do siblings have an advantage in the lottery process?
If you have more than one child whom you would like to enroll at Alma del Mar, you must complete a separate application for each child. Each application will be treated independently. Once one of your children is enrolled at Alma del Mar, your other children will receive priority over children who do not have a sibling at Alma del Mar.
May I attend the lottery?
Absolutely! The lottery is a public event that is open to anyone who would like to attend. The times and places of all lotteries will be posted on the website. You do not have to be present at the lottery to be chosen for an open spot.
