How to Register Your Child for Kindergarten in New York City

The registration application period for Kindergarten enrollment in New York City Public Schools has begun. Here is what you need to know and how to be prepared for the registration process.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. The registration period for this year runs from January 12 to March 2nd.

2. For your child to be eligible for Kindergarten, he or she must be five years old by December 31, 2009. You must be a resident of New York City.

3. You will need to register in person during this time at the school or schools of your choice.

4. Children will be enrolled in the following order of priority. Zoned students with a sibling already enrolled in the school, zoned students, non-zoned students with a sibling already in the school, non-zoned students. If you are applying to a non zoned school, you may want to apply for more than one in case your first choice has no availability after placing all of the zoned applicants.

5. Upon applying, you will need to bring the following documentation. Your child’s birth certificate, immunization records, Child's latest report card/transcript (if available)
   Child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and/or 504 Accommodation Plan (if applicable and available) and two accepted proofs of residency.

6. The proofs of residency accepted by NYC Department of Education are a utility bill dated within the last 60 days, documentation on the letterhead of a city state or federal agency dated in the last 60 days, A paystub from your employer dated in the last 60 days, a property tax or water bill dated in the last 60 days or an original lease agreement, deed, or mortgage statement for the residence. You will need two of the selections from this list.

7. Once the application period has completed, students/parents will be notified of placement. At this time, you and your child must again visit the school to register officially.

8. If you don’t know what schools you are zoned for, copy and paste this link into your browser. http://schools.nyc.gov/FindASchool/AdvanceSearch.htm?level=01

9. For more information, visit the NYC Department of Ed website at http://schools.nyc.gov/ChoicesEnrollment/NewStudents/default.htm

[goodselfme]

on 2/3/2009 Good detail complete with a nice window to register. 5* article.

[NightowlMama]

on 1/23/2009 very resourceful

[painthorse42]

on 1/17/2009 Great article! My family's in NY, this will come in handy! 5*

[maryellen1001]

on 1/14/2009 Great info. Very thorough. Seems like NY is a lot more complicated than NJ or PA!