A charter school is a US and Canadian term for a school that receives public funding, but operates independently of the established public school system, in which it is located. Charter schools are an example of alternative education.

Charter schools in the United States offer primary or secondary education without charge to pupils who take state-mandated exams. These charter schools are subject to fewer rules, regulations, and statutes than traditional state schools, but receive less public funding than public schools, typically a fixed amount per pupil. There are both non-profit and for-profit charter schools, and only non-profit charters can receive donations from private sources.