Tell me more! How do I apply?
Is MarinSEL right for you? As you search for the school that will be the right match, we invite you to learn more about our progressive learning community at Terra Linda High School in San Rafael, California. Environmentally-focused, equity-forward, and project-based, MarinSEL is an innovative program model that empowers students to engage with the community, increase ownership of their learning, and actively apply skills of collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity to drive sustainability solutions.
At MarinSEL, we strive to provide students with an exemplary college preparatory experience combining rigorous project-based learning in the context of solving real-world problems related to the environment. MarinSEL students will develop what have been identified as critical competencies for the 21st century including critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration for future success in college, careers, and life.
MarinSEL offers both a small school community (where everyone knows each other and people are valued for their contributions) and participation in Terra Linda High School (offering a wealth of electives, Advanced Placement classes, and extracurricular activities). Importantly, MarinSEL embraces a partnership with families, which is vital to the success of each student and the overall MarinSEL experience.
Who Should Apply to MarinSEL?
MarinSEL students are expected to maintain a rigorous academic schedule and a minimum 3.0 GPA as part of their four-year commitment to MarinSEL. The MarinSEL admissions process seeks to identify talented, committed students based on a range of factors including academic record, leadership, collaboration skills and commitment to the program. Environmental stewardship and environmental justice are integrated into the core curriculum. Ideal candidates are interested in exploring their relationship with the natural world and demonstrate a desire to contribute to the lives of others.
Please Note: Only students residing within San Rafael City Schools District may apply at this time, as per the District of Choice law limitations. Please contact your district office if you have further questions regarding the District of Choice law.
Application Timeline
| Date | Event Description |
| Before Applying | Explore our Website, read our student-led newsletters, and familiarize yourself with MarinSEL’s courses. |
| October 27, 2025 | Terra Linda High School’s 8th Grade Parent Night Terra Linda High School (TLHS) is inviting 8th grade students and their families to campus to provide them with an in-person informational presentation about the upcoming school years at Terra Linda High School for all prospective students at TLHS Performance Hall. |
| October 27, 2025 | MarinSEL In-Person Open House Parents/guardians and students are invited to learn more about MarinSEL Monday, October 27 following 8th Grade Parent Night from 7:00-8:30pm at TLHS Performance Hall. No registration needed. Applications for the 2025-2026 admissions cycle will open the following day on October 28th. |
| By January 15, 2026 |
Submit your MarinSEL Application (including student application/questionnaire, teacher assessment requests, and your preferred date for Exploration Day) by January 15. |
| February 3, 2026 OR February 5, 2026 |
Attend one Exploration Day at Terra Linda High School from 4:00 – 6:00pm. Exploration Day preference is indicated on the application and will be assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis. |
| February-March 2026 | Enroll In Terra Linda High School. You can find information about enrollment here: SRCS District. |
| February 2026, date TBD |
Offers of Admission will be made. Admission letters are sent out on Fridays at approximately 4pm. |
Open House
During the Open House, families and students learn about the program, as well as meet teachers and students in the MarinSEL program. This is a great opportunity to ask questions regarding the school and this fall’s application process. The online application opens the day after the Open House.
Exploration Day
Exploration Day is an important and mandatory part of the MarinSEL application process, held in early February. Applicants will have a chance to explore and demonstrate their interest in the MarinSEL program through a variety of group activities, as well as a writing assignment and an oral interview. After submitting the formal MarinSEL application, we will confirm your date for Exploration Day. We will make every effort to choose the date based on your stated preference in your MarinSEL application.
Enroll in Terra Linda High School
If you are a local resident, follow the normal registration procedures for enrollment to Terra Linda High School. See the SRCS District website for more information.
Admissions Decisions
Acceptance to MarinSEL is determined by the MarinSEL Admissions Committee. The committee carefully reviews all submitted application materials, as well as the student’s written and participation efforts during Exploration Day. The Admissions Committee looks for an expressed commitment to the four-year program by the student and parent(s)/guardian(s), and a strong interest in rigorous, team-based project learning focusing on our environment.
MarinSEL Alumni
Check out our Alumni Futures page to learn more about which colleges MarinSEL graduates attend.
