The Philly criteria-based admissions process is changing again. Here’s what to know when applying for the 2025-26 school year.

Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. said in a statement Friday that the district had partnered with a new technology provider that would result in a less confusing process for families, give more students an initial offer, shorten the time in which students get acceptances, and cut down on the time it takes to fill open seats in public schools across the city.

Watlington said the district had partnered with a company called Avela to launch a tool it’s calling Explore to provide information about schools to those applying.

The changes drew early praise from Lauren Overton, the veteran principal of Penn Alexander, the West Philadelphia district K-8 school.

“I think it’s a good move,” said Overton. “I’m hopeful that ranked choice is going to make things more equitable and give more opportunities to more kids across the board.”