Does New York offer free preschool?

Yes. New York funds the New York Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) / NYC Pre-K for All for 4 years old (NYC also offers 3-K for All for 3-year-olds). New York's New York Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) / NYC Pre-K for All is universal — no income test. All eligible 3- and 4-year-olds who live in New York qualify.

What are the income limits for free preschool in New York?

New York's New York Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) / NYC Pre-K for All is universal — no income test. All eligible 3- and 4-year-olds who live in New York qualify.

When do I enroll my child in New York pre-K?

New York pre-K enrollment typically runs January through April (NYC: January–February). Apply through New York State Education Department / NYC Department of Education. NYC Pre-K for All and 3-K for All are universal — every child is eligible. Outside NYC, availability and eligibility vary by school district. Apply through your local district.

✓ Universal Pre-K — No Income Test

Free Preschool in New York

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

New York offers free pre-K to all eligible 3- and 4-year-olds through New York Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) / NYC Pre-K for All. No income test.

Age

4 years old (NYC also offers 3-K for All for 3-year-olds)

Income limit

None (universal)

Schedule

Full school day

Apply by

January through April

New York Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

New York Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) / NYC Pre-K for All

Age requirement

4 years old (NYC also offers 3-K for All for 3-year-olds)

Income limit

Universal in NYC — no income test. Varies by district elsewhere.

Schedule

Full school day (NYC); varies elsewhere

Enrollment

January through April (NYC: January–February)

Administered by

New York State Education Department / NYC Department of Education

How to Apply for Free Preschool in New York

Applications are handled by New York State Education Department / NYC Department of Education.

Check age and income eligibility

Your child must be 4 years old (NYC also offers 3-K for All for 3-year-olds). No income verification required.

Apply during enrollment window

New York pre-K enrollment typically runs January through April (NYC: January–February). Apply early — many programs fill quickly.

Choose a provider

Programs run through public schools and licensed childcare centers. NYC Pre-K for All and 3-K for All are universal — every child is eligible. Outside NYC, availability and eligibility vary by school district. Apply through your local district.

Apply through New York State →

What to know before you apply

• NYC Pre-K for All and 3-K for All are universal — every child is eligible. Outside NYC, availability and eligibility vary by school district. Apply through your local district.
• Head Start is a backup option if state seats run out. It serves families below 100% FPL and is federally funded nationwide.