New York City offers free, full-day Pre-K for every 4-year-old and free 3-K for every 3-year-old — one of the most comprehensive early childhood programs of any city in the country. These programs are not just for low-income families: they are universal, and the quality can be exceptional. But the application process has deadlines, the best programs fill up fast, and many families don’t realize they need to actively apply. This guide explains how to enroll your child.
3-K for All: Free Programs for 3-Year-Olds
3-K for All provides free, full-day early childhood programs for 3-year-olds in New York City. Programs operate in public schools, charter schools, and community-based organizations (CBOs) across all five boroughs. Children must turn 3 by December 31 of the school year.
Pre-K for All: Free Programs for 4-Year-Olds
Pre-K for All provides free, full-day pre-kindergarten for 4-year-olds. Children must turn 4 by December 31 of the school year. Programs are located in public schools and community-based organizations throughout NYC.
How to Apply
Apply Through MySchools
All 3-K and Pre-K applications go through myschools.nyc. The application window typically opens in January and closes in March for programs starting the following September. After submitting:
- Browse and rank programs — you can list up to 12 3-K or Pre-K programs in order of preference
- Submit your ranked list during the application window
- Offers are released in late spring (typically April–May)
- Accept your offer by the deadline and complete enrollment at the program
If You Miss the Window
You can still apply after the main window closes — a second round of offers is typically released in the summer, and programs with remaining seats accept applicants year-round. Apply as early as possible for the best selection.
Documents Needed for Enrollment
- Proof of child’s age (birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of NYC residency (lease, utility bill, or other official document)
- Immunization records
As with all NYC public school enrollment, you cannot be denied based on immigration status or lack of documentation. Contact (718) 935-2009 if you have difficulty with documents.
Choosing a Program: What to Look For
3-K and Pre-K programs vary significantly in quality and approach. When ranking programs on myschools.nyc, consider:
- Location and hours: Full-day (typically 8am–3pm or 6+ hours) vs. half-day programs
- Curriculum approach: Play-based, structured, dual-language
- Language of instruction: Dual-language programs teach in English plus Spanish, Mandarin, French, or other languages
- Meals: Most programs provide free breakfast and lunch
- Before/after school care: Some programs offer extended care
- ACS (Administration for Children’s Services) rating: Community-based programs are rated by ACS — higher-rated programs generally have stronger quality indicators
Special Education in Pre-K and 3-K
Children with developmental delays or disabilities are eligible for free early intervention and preschool special education services separate from or alongside the 3-K/Pre-K programs. If you have concerns about your child’s development:
- Request an evaluation from the NYC DOE’s Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) — contact your borough’s CPSE at (718) 935-3000
- Children under age 3 with developmental concerns may qualify for Early Intervention services — contact NYC Early Intervention at (347) 396-7100
ACS Child Care: Subsidized Programs for Working Families
Families who need childcare beyond the 3-K/Pre-K school day — or year-round care — may qualify for subsidized childcare through the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). ACS childcare subsidies are income-based and can cover care at licensed daycare centers and family childcare homes.
- Apply: ACS Child Care Vouchers — call (212) 835-7610 or apply at nyc.gov/acs
- Eligibility is based on income and work/school/training status of parents
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pre-K really free for everyone in NYC, including middle-income families?
Yes. Pre-K for All and 3-K for All are universal programs with no income requirement. All NYC children who meet the age requirement are eligible regardless of family income, immigration status, or neighborhood.
What is the difference between a Pre-K in a public school and one in a community-based organization?
Both are free NYC DOE-funded Pre-K programs. Public school-based programs are located in school buildings; community-based programs are in nonprofit childcare centers, faith-based organizations, or other community locations. Quality varies at both — review the program’s ACS rating and visit before choosing. Community-based programs sometimes offer more flexible hours.
My child turns 4 in January. Are they eligible for Pre-K this September?
Yes. The age cutoff is December 31 of the school year — if your child turns 4 by December 31, they are eligible for the Pre-K program starting the previous September. For example, a child born January 2021 who turns 4 by December 31, 2025 is eligible for the 2025–2026 Pre-K year.
Can my child attend a dual-language Pre-K program even if we don’t speak that language at home?
Yes. Dual-language programs welcome children of all language backgrounds — they are designed to develop bilingualism in both native speakers and non-speakers of the partner language. Research suggests that dual-language immersion is beneficial for children of all language backgrounds. Apply during the regular window through myschools.nyc.
