NYC High School Admissions: 68,000 Students, 400 Schools, 700 Programs

Applying to high school in New York City is a daunting process, with eighth‑graders choosing from 700 programs in 400 schools across the five boroughs. Last year, roughly 68,000 students submitted applications; 58% were offered a seat at their top choice and 82% received a seat in one of their top three choices. Applications are due on December 4, with offers expected to be sent after 3 p.m. on March 3 2027. Families can list as many schools as they wish, but the Education Department advises balancing reach schools with those where the student has a realistic chance, and warns that applications with only screened schools will be flagged. The city’s admissions system includes priority groups based on seventh‑grade GPA, special programs for students with disabilities, and a “Diversity in Admissions” program that reserves seats for underrepresented groups. The random lottery number, visible in the MySchools portal, serves as a tiebreaker when applicant numbers exceed available seats.