About the NYC 3K Finder & Program Information

Welcome, NYC Parents!

This website is designed to help you navigate the process of finding 3K programs for your child in New York City. We aim to provide a user-friendly tool to explore nearby options and understand key information about each program.

Understanding the Data

The information presented on this site is compiled from publicly available data, primarily from NYC Open Data and MySchools.nyc resources. We strive to keep it as up-to-date as possible, but always recommend cross-referencing with official NYC Department of Education (DOE) sources.

What You'll See for Each Program:

• School Name & Program Type: The official name of the school and the specific 3K program offered.
• Address: The physical location of the program.
• Website: A link to the school's or program's official website, if available.
• 3K Spots Available: The number of 3K seats reported for the most recent available year (typically the upcoming school year's data). This number can change, so always verify.

Interpreting Application Success Information (ASR)

One key feature is the "Application Success Info (Last Year)". This data reflects admission patterns from the previous application cycle and can give you an idea of how competitive a program might be for different applicant groups. It is not a guarantee of admission.

• High Likelihood: Indicates that in the previous year, all applicants in this category who listed this program were offered a seat.
• Medium Likelihood: Indicates that in the previous year, some applicants in this category were offered a seat.
• Low Likelihood: Indicates that in the previous year, no (zero) applicants in this category were offered a seat.
• No Applicants: Indicates that in the previous year, there were no applicants in this specific priority group for this program, or not enough to determine a likelihood.

You'll see ASR data for categories like:

• Current Student: Children already attending the school (e.g., in a pre-K program if applicable and continuing).
• Sibling Priority: Applicants who have a sibling already attending the school.
• New District/Zoned Applicant: Applicants living within the school's zone or district, who are new to the school.
• Other New Applicant: Applicants who don't fall into the above priority groups.

How to Use This Site

Searching for Programs:

• Enter your home address in the search bar and click "Search" (or select an address from the autocomplete suggestions).
• The map will then display 3K programs within a 1-mile radius of your entered address.
• Your searched address will be marked with a ★ (star) icon.

Using the Map:

• School programs are shown as blue map pins.
• Click on any pin to see a pop-up with more details about that program, including its name, address, website, available spots, and Application Success Info.
• You can find a "Directions" link in the pop-up to get Google Maps directions from your searched address to the school.

Using the Filters:

• Once results are displayed, a "Filters" panel will appear on the map (usually top-right).
• You can use these filters to see programs where specific applicant groups had a "High Likelihood" of admission last year.
• For example, if you have a child already attending a school and are applying for a younger sibling, you might toggle on the "Sibling Priority" filter.
• Note: Only one likelihood filter can be active at a time. Selecting one will deselect others.
• Remember, these filters are based on historical data and are for guidance only.

About the NYC 3K Program (3-K for All)

3-K for All provides free, full-day, high-quality early childhood education for three-year-olds across New York City. It's a fantastic opportunity for children to learn and grow in a supportive environment.

Eligibility:

Children are eligible for 3K if they turn 3 years old within the calendar year they are applying for. For example, to apply for 3K for the 2024-2025 school year, your child must have been born in 2021.

Application Process & Deadlines:

• The 3K application period typically opens in the winter (often late January or early February).
• The deadline to apply is usually in early March.
• Crucial: These dates can vary each year. The most reliable source for application timelines, procedures, and deadlines is the official MySchools.nyc website. Please check it regularly.
• You apply online via MySchools.nyc. You can list up to 12 program choices on your application.

Admission Priorities:

Admissions to 3K programs are not first-come, first-served. Offers are made based on admissions priorities, which can include:

• Siblings of current students at the school.
• Children of current staff at the school.
• For district schools, students living in the zone/district.
• Other applicants.

Priorities vary by program type (NYC Early Education Centers, district schools, etc.). Full details are available on MySchools.nyc.

Tips for NYC Parents

• Start Early: Begin researching programs and understanding the application process well before the application window opens.
• Use MySchools.nyc: This is your primary resource for official information, program details, and submitting your application.
• Explore Your Options: Use this tool and MySchools.nyc to find programs near your home or work. Consider factors like program philosophy, hours of operation, and any special features.
• Visit Schools (If Possible): Many schools offer tours or virtual information sessions. This is a great way to get a feel for the environment.
• List Multiple Choices: You can list up to 12 choices on your 3K application. Listing more programs increases your chances of receiving an offer.

Disclaimer

The NYC 3K Finder is an independent tool created to assist parents. While we strive for accuracy, the data is based on publicly available information from previous years and is subject to change. This site is not affiliated with the NYC Department of Education. For official and the most current information, always consult MySchools.nyc or other official NYC DOE resources.