Parenting in NYC is a full-time job in itself, and finding affordable childcare is usually the hardest part of the gig!
That’s exactly why the city’s free 3-K and Pre-K programs are such a game changer local families.
The clock is officially ticking though, because the application deadline for the 2026-2027 school year is this Friday, February 27.
We gave you the full rundown on these guaranteed spots last month, but now it is crunch time.
Missing this window means potentially leaving a seat on the table that could save your family an average of $26,000 a year in childcare costs.
What you need to know
The city has already seen a massive wave of interest this year with over 50,000 families already hitting the submit button, and that was announced in January —meaning there’s probably even more now.
While that might sound like a lot of competition, the application process is not first-come, first-served.
As long as you get your rankings in by the end of the day this Friday, your application will be treated with the same priority as the ones submitted back in January.
- 3-K: For children born in 2023.
- Pre-K: For children born in 2022.
New updates for this year
Since our last update, there has been some exciting news for parents in specific neighborhoods.
A brand-new 3-K and Pre-K center is officially opening this fall on the Upper East Side (specifically on 65th Street), adding 132 much-needed seats to the mix. Families in Manhattan’s District 2 will get priority for these new spots, so make sure to update your rankings if you live in the area.
The city is also doubling down on outreach this week.
You might have seen the latest videos playing on LinkNYC kiosks or TaxiTV screens featuring local officials and even Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez urging parents to sign up. The message is clear: the city is trying to make sure no one misses out on this “free money” for education.
How to apply before Friday
The process is pretty straightforward and shouldn’t take you long. You can apply in 13 different languages online, or get help over the phone in over 200 languages.
- Online: Head to the MySchools.nyc portal to create an account and rank your top choices.
- Phone: Call 718-935-2009 between 8 am and 6 pm to apply over the phone.
- In Person: Visit one of the Family Welcome Centers across the five boroughs if you want someone to walk you through it.
Don’t let the week slip away without checking this off your to-do list.
Once the clock strikes midnight on Friday, the primary application window closes. We’ll see you at the playground!