Selection and placement for the program occurs once a year, at the conclusion of each school year. In order for a student to be placed, first and foremost there must be classroom space available in the receiving suburban district. Students are selected to participate in the program following a district level review of student report cards, test scores, attendance records, teacher comments and an interview with the student, parents, school administrator (usually the principal) and Urban-Suburban staff.

After the interview is complete the administrator (usually the principal) will determine whether or not a student is offered placement.

Parents apply to the program not a specific district. There is no waiting list or sibling preference for selection in this program and placement is not based on first come/first serve. All applications are reviewed each year and selected on their own merit.