NYC 3-K and Pre-K applications are now open for the 2026 school year. Mayor Mamdani urges families to apply by February 27 at myschools.nyc.
By Staff Reporter
NEW YORK, NY — The Mamdani Administration officially kicked off the citywide NYC 3-K and Pre-K application period, encouraging families with young children to apply early for the 2026 school year. Applications are now open and will remain available through February 27, 2026.
To mark the launch, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and New York City Public Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels visited a 3-K and Pre-K child care center in Cypress Hills, highlighting the city’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality early childhood education across all five boroughs.
Parents and caregivers of children turning 3 or 4 years old this year can apply online at myschools.nyc, by phone at 718-935-2009, or in person at one of the city’s 13 Family Welcome Centers.
How to Apply for NYC 3-K and Pre-K Programs
Families applying for free NYC 3-K or Pre-K programs have multiple ways to get help throughout the process:
- Apply online: myschools.nyc
- Call for assistance: 718-935-2009
- Visit in person: 13 Family Welcome Centers citywide
Applications are available in 13 languages online, and families can access interpretation services in more than 200 languages by phone or in person.
Importantly, city officials emphasized that 3-K and Pre-K applications are not first-come, first-served. Any family that applies by the February 27, 2026 deadline is guaranteed to receive an offer.
Mayor Mamdani Launches Citywide Outreach Campaign
As part of an aggressive outreach effort, Mayor Mamdani released a new public service video encouraging families to apply for 3-K and Pre-K. The video will run across TaxiTV and LinkNYC, ensuring the message reaches parents and caregivers in neighborhoods across New York City.
“New Yorkers have until February 27 to apply for 3-K and Pre-K, and we’re using every tool at our disposal to get the word out,” said Mayor Zohran Mamdani. “Whether on TaxiTV, LinkNYC, or out in your neighborhood, my Administration is working tirelessly to ensure families know their government is here to serve them.”
The mayor reiterated that families can apply online, by phone, or in person, and encouraged anyone with questions to seek support.
Schools Chancellor Highlights Equity and Continuity of Care
Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels emphasized the importance of early education in setting children up for long-term success.
“Every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves access to a high-quality early childhood education,” Samuels said. “No parent should have to make difficult choices to ensure their children are on a path to lifelong success.”
She added that the Department of Education is focused on continuity of care, ensuring families experience a smooth transition from early childhood programs into the broader public school system.
Family Welcome Centers and Support Hours
Families seeking in-person help can visit a Family Welcome Center during the following hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Phone support at 718-935-2009 is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Part of a Larger Early Childhood Education Expansion
The 3-K and Pre-K application launch follows the historic 2-Care announcement by Mayor Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul, which aims to expand affordable child care options across New York City.
Under the Mamdani Administration’s plan, 2-Care will begin by serving high-need neighborhoods, with a phased expansion to reach all interested families citywide by year four. The administration is also partnering with the state to strengthen and fix the city’s 3-K system, reinforcing its promise of universal access.
Frequently Asked Questions About NYC 3-K and Pre-K Applications
Is NYC 3-K and Pre-K free?
Yes. NYC 3-K and Pre-K programs are free for eligible families.
Is there a deadline to apply for 3-K and Pre-K in NYC?
Yes. The application deadline is February 27, 2026.
Do applications get processed first-come, first-served?
No. All families who apply by the deadline will receive an offer.
What if I need help in another language?
Language support is available in 200+ languages by phone and in person.
For families with children turning 3 or 4 years old, now is the time to apply. With expanded outreach, multilingual support, and guaranteed placement for on-time applicants, the Mamdani Administration is making early childhood education in New York City more accessible than ever.
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