Introduction to Charter Schools in New York City
New York City charter schools are experiencing a surge in enrollment, according to data from New York State Education Department (NYSED). The 2024-25 figures reveal that charter school enrollment in the city has grown by 4.1% over the past academic year. With over 149,000 students enrolled in the current school year, charter schools represent more than 15% of all K-12 public school students across the five boroughs.
Reasons for Growth in Enrollment
James Merriman, CEO of the New York City Charter Center, a nonprofit that works to boost charter schools across the city, attributed this growth to the track record of success demonstrated by these institutions of learning. “Charter schools offer families a broad array of incredible choices when it comes to their children’s education,” he said. “Every parent and guardian wants their child to succeed in school, and we’re definitely seeing a rise in interest in our high-performing city charter schools across the board.”
Diversity in Charter School Enrollment
Enrollment also shows a diverse composition of charter school students. Latino students make up about 43% of enrollment, while Black students account for nearly half of enrollment in charter schools throughout the city. English language learners comprise 10% of all charter school students, while students with disabilities make up nearly 19%, figures comparable to the district’s average.
Charter Schools in New York
As of 2025, 351 charter schools in New York were active, with nine more approved but not yet open. Over 280 of these schools are located throughout NYC’s five boroughs. Meanwhile, a new online resource is available that aims to make the charter school selection process easier for families. Earlier this month, the New York City Charter School Center launched the NYC Charter School FINDER, a catalogue of the city’s many charter schools located across more than 410 campuses.
Application Process
For those considering applying to charter schools, the Common Online Charter School Application offers a streamlined process, allowing applicants to submit a single application to multiple schools simultaneously. The application process is now open for the 2025-26 school year. The strong enrollment rates at New York City charter schools underscore the growing preference among families for high-quality educational alternatives and the continued efforts of charter school educators and leaders to provide students with the resources and support they need to succeed.
Conclusion
The growth in enrollment in New York City charter schools is a testament to the success of these institutions in providing high-quality education to students. With a diverse range of students and a streamlined application process, charter schools are becoming an increasingly popular choice for families in the city.
FAQs
What is the current enrollment rate in New York City charter schools?
The current enrollment rate in New York City charter schools is over 149,000 students, representing more than 15% of all K-12 public school students across the five boroughs.
How many charter schools are currently active in New York?
As of 2025, 351 charter schools in New York were active, with nine more approved but not yet open.
What is the NYC Charter School FINDER?
The NYC Charter School FINDER is a new online resource that aims to make the charter school selection process easier for families, providing a catalogue of the city’s many charter schools located across more than 410 campuses.
How can I apply to charter schools in New York City?
The Common Online Charter School Application offers a streamlined process, allowing applicants to submit a single application to multiple schools simultaneously. The application process is now open for the 2025-26 school year.
