The authority to open and establish a charter school should be granted only to applicants that have a sound plan for, and demonstrate the capacity to operate, a quality, high-functioning public charter school. This policy guide discusses the following: (1) Background on the Charter School Application Process; (2) Key Considerations for Policymakers on the Charter School Application Process; (3) Recommendations and Best Practices for State Policy on the Charter School Application Process; and (4) Resources and Further Analysis. (Contains 8 endnotes and 6 resources.)