Elan School accepts students who meet the following criteria:
1. 7 - 12 grade
2. IQ 90 or above
3. Behavior problems in school
4. Refuses to obey authority figures
5. Acts without thinking about consequences
6. Has difficulty accepting responsibility
7. Substance abuse
8. Oppositional behavior
9. Temper tantrums
10. Mood swings
11. Poor self-esteem
12. Academic underachiever
13. Mild to moderate learning disabilities

Applicants not considered for admission are those who exhibit active violent behavior, have a specific psychotic condition that cannot be managed without psychotropic medication, have a severe physical condition requiring constant medical attention or are a sexual predator.