Pre-Kindergarten

Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) programs provide a nurturing environment where children's natural curiosity is used as a springboard to learn skills that are necessary for success in school. In pre-kindergarten, children learn how to share, take turns and work in groups. They also develop the skills that form the foundation for reading, writing, and mathematics.

All UPK programs are free of charge. Programs can be half-day or full-day; half-day programs may take place in the morning or afternoon. UPK programs are available at select New York City Department of Education (DOE) public schools and at many community-based organizations (CBOs). CBOs are independent groups that contract with the Department of Education to provide pre-kindergarten programs and other services to families.

Eligibility: Children born in 2008 who reside in New York City are eligible to participate in UPK programs that are offered by the New York City Department of Education in the 2012-13 school year.

Public School UPK Programs: The public school pre-kindergarten application period was from March 5 - April 10. Families will be notified of placement decisions the week of June 11.

CBO UPK Programs: CBO programs manage their own application process. If you are interested in a CBO program, contact the CBO directly to ask about seat availability and enrollment. For more information about community-based programs near you, please see the Pre-Kindergarten Directory or contact an Early Childhood Education field office.

To access a copy of the CBO UPK application, click here. The CBO application may not be used to apply to Public School UPK Programs.