Chicago School and Sports Physicals

Evidence shows healthy students have better attendance patterns and perform better academically.

Free school supplies for children ages 5-11 who complete a school physical from 8/8 to 10/14!

What to expect at a back-to-school physical appointment

Chicago Public Schools requires a medical exam for students in Pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th and 9th grade, or who have changed schools. To complete the exam an appointment is required. The school physical form will be completed at the visit.

At the appointment, the provider will give your child a complete checkup including:

Measure your child’s height, weight, blood pressure and pulse
Check your child’s eyes, ears, nose throat, lymph nodes, heart lungs and abdomen for any abnormalities
Assess your child’s neck, spine shoulders, arms, wrists, elbows, knees, legs and feet
Check hearing and vision
Blood tests may be required
Make sure your child has his/her updated immunizations (please bring the
immunization record with you)
Review your medical history
Ask you and your child about any concerns you may have about his/her wellbeing
Give you guidance on preventive care and healthy lifestyle choices

Chicago Public Schools’ deadline to receive completed school physicals is Oct. 15.

School Physicals & Other Form Request FAQs

Q. What is the process for school dental exams?

A. The process for dental exams is a little different. Children entering Kindergarten, 2nd, 6th and 9th grade need dental exams. The deadline to complete dental exams is not until May 15, 2023. Note: plan to schedule routine dental visits every 6 months.

Q. When should my child come in for a well child exam?
A. Well Child Physicals should take place at the following ages: 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 15 months, 18 months, 24 months and 30 months and yearly for age 3 and older.

Q. Do I need to make an appointment to complete a school physical or day care form if my child recently had a well child physical?
A. For School Physical or Day Care forms, if Well Child Physical is up to date, we will complete
form in 3-5 business days. If not, please make an appointment for your child.

Q. Is there a different process for sports physicals?

A. Yes. Parent or guardian must sign history section (IHSA Pre-participation Physical Evaluation form) before the visit. An appointment is required, and the sports physical form will be completed at the visit.

Q. Do I need to make an appointment to complete a sports physical form if my child recently had a well child physical?
Yes. Please make an appointment for your child, even if you had a recent Well Child visit.

Q. Do I need to make an appointment to complete a school dental form?
Yes. Please contact the scheduling department to determine if your child needs an appointment.

Q. Do I need to make an appointment to complete a Headstart dental form?
Yes, please make an appointment for your child. You must bring your Headstart form to the appointment.

Q. Do I need to make an appointment to complete a WIC form for my child?
A. Please make an appointment for your child unless Well Child Physical took place in the last 60 days and your child completed all required blood tests within 12 months.

Q. Do I need to make an appointment if my child needs a different form (such as for asthma, allergy plans, other special health care needs or permissions to carry or administer medications)?
Yes. Please contact us to schedule an appointment.

Please note: once your child is up to date with all requirements, we will complete the form in 3-5 business days.