If your child didn't get the kindergarten spot you asked for, try to stay calm. Waitlists at schools move over the spring and summer. We have seen it happen year after year. Children get offers on a rolling basis as families make final choices. Hang in there.

The city sent out offers for kindergarten seats on April 2, 2025. In many cases, the waitlists clear by summer as families make decisions and opt for other choices. Waitlists will remain open through the early fall.

Your child is automatically placed on waitlists for all the choices above the one you got. Our advice: Email the parent coordinator at the school you like best. Be friendly. Be easy to reach.

You may accept your child’s kindergarten offer on MySchools if you applied online, or through the school directly. If you applied by phone, call 718-935-2009, or email ESenrollment@schools.nyc.gov. You must accept your offer by May 2.

Accepting a spot won't keep you from getting an offer at a school where you are waitlisted, or from a charter school, but if you do not accept by the May deadline, you give up your seat. Admissions letters from charters come later in the year.

As for Gifted & Talented, keep in mind that not all eligible applicants will receive an offer, and some may be waitlisted. Remember that offers are based on your choices, seat availability, and priorities like siblings or district residency.

Once you've accepted your offer you'll work with the school to complete registration by providing your child's birth certificate and immunization records, and proof of residence (a lease or electric bill).

The school choice process involves a degree of fate, particularly with the lottery system. Revisit our 'School Stats' (🍏) on each school profile page to learn more about your placement. Where a school is lacking, you may be able to fill in the gaps. Recognize that no school is perfect. Your participation can help shape it for the better.

For more information, visit the Kindergarten page at NYC Schools.