Pre-Kindergarten

Pre K Schools

News and Updates

Find new, full-day, public pre-k programs for September 2014 in our Pre-K Expansion Guide!

Submit or update a public school pre-k application now. 

The pre-k application deadline has been extended to April 23. For more key dates about pre-k admissions, including school tour and open house schedules, see the Events page.

Select Enrollment Offices will offer extended hours through the public school pre-k application deadline. Please see our Resources page for more information.

    If you live in New York City and your child is turning 4 years old in 2014, it’s time to think about applying to pre-kindergarten!
    • Children turning four years old in 2014 who live in New York City are eligible to attend pre-k programs.
    • Pre-k is free. You do not have to pay to attend programs offered by the NYC Department of Education.
    • Programs can be half-day (2 hours and 30 minutes) or full-day (6 hours and 20 minutes). Half-day programs may take place in the morning (AM) or afternoon (PM).
    • Programs are available at public schools and community-based organizations (CBOs). There are separate application processes for public schools and CBOs.

    Pre-K Options: Public Schools and Community Based-Organizations

    Public School Pre-K Programs

    • Apply through April 23, 2014. A full list of important dates is available on the Events page.
    • Apply online or in person at an Enrollment Office. Do not submit an application by mail or directly to a school.
    • Admission is NOT first-come, first-served. All applications received by the deadline are treated the same, according to standard pre-k admissions priorities.
    • If you have already applied, please complete this survey in order to help us improve the application process for next year.

     Community-Based Organization (CBO) Pre-K Programs

    • CBOs are independent groups that contract with the Department of Education to provide free pre-k programs and other services to families.
    • CBOs manage their own application process. Get the CBO application from any CBO program site or here. Then, deliver the CBO application in person to each site for which you want to apply.
    • Admissions criteria vary by CBO. Most CBOs admit students on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Pre-K Directory & Expansion Guide

    The 2014-2015 Pre-K Expansion Guide is now available. This booklet provides detailed information about new full-day public school pre-k programs announced in April 2014. Use this guide with the 2014-2015 Pre-K Directory for a complete look at all public pre-k program options available for your child this September.

     

    Students with Disabilities

    Students with disabilities may apply to all pre-k programs according to standard Pre-K Admissions. Some students may require additional supports. Please read about Pre-K Admissions for students who require special education services.