3-K provides free, full-day, high-quality early childhood education for three-year-olds.
- Apply to 3-K from January 15, 2025 to February 28, 2025 for the 2025-2026 school year.
- In New York City, you can apply to 3-K in the calendar year that your child turns three.
- 3-K programs are offered throughout NYC.
- Use MySchools to search for and learn about 3-K options.
- Your child has priority to attend 3-K programs in the district where you live.
- Children can enroll in Full Day, Extended Day and Year, and Head Start seat types. Learn more.
- 3-K programs are offered throughout the five boroughs in different settings. Each setting offers a consistent DOE high-quality, play-based curriculum.
Who is eligible
All New York City families with children born in 2022 can enroll for the 2025-2026 school year. This includes children with disabilities or who are learning English.
Children do not need to be toilet trained to attend 3-K.
What you need to apply
View the pre-registration checklist to learn more about the documents you need to pre-register your child and accept their 3-K offer.
How to apply
Apply for 3-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 3-K programs with an extended day and year, including Head Start. Eligibility is based on income and needs.
How to get help
- Visit the 3-K website to find out more information.
- Call 311 if you have questions about 3-K.
- Email 3-K admissions at [email protected] if you have questions about 3-K.
Other Education Programs
Pre-K
NYC Department of Education (DOE)
Free Pre-K for four-year-olds
Enroll your child in a free, full-day, high-quality Pre-K program.
CUNY Start
The City University of New York (CUNY)
Academic support for CUNY students
CUNY students can get help meeting CUNY's proficiency standards and preparing for college-level courses.
CUNY Fatherhood Academy (CFA)
The City University of New York (CUNY)
High school & college for young dads
Education, employment, and parenting help for fathers ages 18 - 30.
Updated January 14, 2025