Enroll Grade by Grade

**Participating in Blended Learning?** Random testing for COVID-19 begins Friday, October 9 at schools! Families are able to provide consent for their child to be tested using their NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) You can also download the form in multiple languages and return a signed hard copy back to your school.

How Students Get Offers

How to Apply: Grade by Grade

Click or tap on the links below to learn more about each admissions process. 

**Need a school right away? Visit our New Students page or request support from Family Welcome Center staff.**

  • EarlyLearn

    Free or low-cost child care and education provided through the DOE for children from 6 weeks to 2 years old. If you qualify, your child can begin a program any time during the year.

  • Head Start

    Safe, positive learning environments for children ages 3-4 to learn, to play, and build the skills that get them ready for kindergarten and beyond.

  • 3-K

    Apply to free, full-day 3-K programs the year your child turns 3.

  • Pre-K

    Apply to pre-K programs the year your child turns 4. There is a pre-K seat for every 4-year-old NYC resident.

  • Kindergarten

    Your child will enter kindergarten in the calendar year they turn 5. Apply even if your child is a current pre-K student.

  • Gifted and Talented

    In the fall before your child's kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grade year, sign your child up to take the G&T test. Students with qualifying scores can apply to G&T.

  • Middle School

    Apply during the fall of your child’s 5th grade year (or 6th grade for students in K-6 schools).

  • High School

    Apply during the fall of your child's 8th or (first-time) 9th grade year.

  • Specialized High Schools

    In the fall of your child's 8th or (first-time) 9th grade year, register to audition and/or test to apply to the Specialized High Schools.

  • Diversity in Admissions

    Schools across New York City were invited to participate in a pilot initiative to increase diversity within their schools. Learn about the participating schools and initiatives for each grade level.

  • Admissions Engagement

    Opportunities for families and community members to partner with the NYC DOE on admissions plans

Update: Since the making of our Middle and High School Admissions animation, we've made some improvements to our admissions processes: there is now only one round of high school admissions. Learn about waitlists for 3-K through high school.