NYC 3-K And Pre-K Applications Are Now Open — Here Is Everything Parents Need To Know To Secure Guaranteed Acceptance For Little Learners

In New York City , milestones come in all shapes and sizes—and for 3- and 4-year-olds, they sometimes happen on a subway platform . City kids can tap an OMNY card before they can tie their shoes , pronounce dinosaur names that stump adults thanks to afternoons (or sleepovers) spent at the Museum of Natural History , and navigate a crowded sidewalk like seasoned pros. As these tiny New Yorkers grow more independent , one big milestone looms large for families: their little learners starting school. Last week, Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced major new investments in early childhood education—expanding free child care for 2-year-olds and moving New York City closer to universal 3-K and Pre-K , with a focus on easing costs for families and widening access where it’s needed most. For parents of soon-to-be 3- and 4-year-olds, the next big step is official: applications for the 2026–27 school year are open. Whether you’re clicking through online , calling it in, or stopping by a Family Welcome Center , enrolling your little New Yorker is just a few taps (or a stroller walk) away. For more information and to apply online , visit the official NYC MYschools website. There’s no mad dash just yet—applications stay open through February 27th and are available online in 13 languages . Families can access interpretation in 200+ languages by phone at 718-935-2009 or in person at a Family Welcome Center . And the best news? Every family that applies by the deadline is guaranteed an offer for a 3-K or Pre-K program . The rollout follows plans to fully deliver on 3-K, expand Pre-K access for all 4-year-olds by the 2028–29 school year, and launch free child care for NYC’s 2-year-olds—proof that big plans are starting with the city’s smallest New Yorkers . In a statement, Mayor Mamdani said: “Whether on TaxiTV , LinkNYC , or out in your neighborhood , my Administration will be working tirelessly to ensure that New Yorkers know their government is here to serve them.” In New York City , learning to read , count , and explore goes hand in hand with spotting the perfect slice of pizza , hopping on the subway without missing a beat, and navigating a sidewalk full of scooters, strollers, and street performers. It’s here, amidst the hustle and bustle , that little New Yorkers build confidence , curiosity , and street smarts —crafting a generation ready to take on the city , chase their dreams , and maybe even teach the grown-ups a thing or two along the way. Happy learning , city kids! Source: https://secretnyc.co/nyc-school-applications-2026-2027-guaranteed-spots/