Pre-K

Pre-K gives your child a strong start through play-based learning. Children develop problem-solving skills, ask questions, and explore in a safe, nurturing environment. Important details Apply by February 27, 2026 for the 2026-2027 school year. When can my child start? Children can begin pre-K in the calendar year they turn four. This year, all kids born in 2022 are eligible. What seat types are available? Programs offer Full Day, Extended Day and Year, and Head Start seats. Each type has different eligibility requirements . Where are programs located? Pre-K programs are available across all five boroughs in three settings: • Select public elementary schools • Pre-K centers run by NYCDOE staff • Community-based organizations (CBOs) All settings provide the same high-quality, play-based DOE curriculum. How to apply Apply to Pre-K in one of these ways: • Online with MySchools . You can apply in English, Arabic, Bengali/Bangla, Chinese, Haitian Creole, French, Korean, Russian, Spanish, or Urdu. • By phone by calling 718-935-2009 . Interpretation services are available in more than 200 languages. • In-person at a Family Welcome Center . Eligible families can also apply for free or low-cost pre-K programs with an extended day and year, including Head Start. Eligibility is based on income and needs. You can also find half-day pre-K programs and charter school pre-K program in MySchools. What you may need View the pre-registration checklist to learn more about the documents you need to pre-register your child and accept their Pre-K offer. How to get help • Visit the NYC DOE Pre-K website to learn more about the pre-K admissions process. • Email es_enrollment@schools.nyc.gov if you have questions about getting into pre-K.