Learn About 3-K Program Settings and Seat Types – Apply by April 14

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Dear family,

Have a child born in 2019? Don’t forget to apply 3-K by April 14, 2022! You can apply online at MySchools.nyc, by phone at 718-935-2009, or through a Family Welcome Center.

Did you know that NYC’s 3-K programs are offered in four different program settings? All settings offer the same full day, high-quality 3-K curriculum to our city’s three-year-old children. You can apply to programs in all settings:

  • New York City Early Education Centers (NYCEECs). These community-based organizations with early childhood expertise partner with the Department of Education (DOE) to offer 3-K.
  • District schools. Some DOE public elementary schools offer 3-K.
  • Pre-K Centers. These are DOE early childhood centers that only offers grades below kindergarten.
  • Family Child Care. These programs offer 3-K in a home-based setting by licensed, qualified childcare providers.


A 3-K program can offer up to three types of 3-K seats:

  • Full Day seats are free and provide early care and education for 6 hours and 20 minutes a day during the school year, typically September to June. All NYC children born in 2019 are eligible for these seats. 
  • Extended Day and Year seats are free or low cost and provide early care and education all year round for up to 10 hours of care a day. Eligibility for these seats is based on family income and needs. If you receive an offer to an Extended Day and Year seat, you will need to confirm your child’s eligibility by completing a Child Care application.
  • Head Start seats are free and provide early care and education all year round for up to 10 hours a day. Eligibility for Head Start is based on family income and needs. If you receive an offer to a Head Start seat, the program will work with you directly to confirm your child’s eligibility.

Seats are limited and applicants have priority to attend 3-K programs in their own districts. Learn more at nyc.gov/3K. 

With your MySchools account, you can use the searchable directory to filter for programs by setting, seat types, and other features, including dual language programs and more! Log in to save favorite programs, add programs to your application, and apply. Questions or need support?

Best wishes,

The 3-K Admissions Team, Office of Student Enrollment