Comprehensive After School System of NYC

Enrichment | NYC Department of Youth & Community Development (DYCD)

Families with childrenStudentsGrade-SchoolerPre-TeenTeen

New York City students can join free afterschool programs that offer homework help, sports, arts, and more. Hundreds of programs are located all over the City.

Heads Up

  • In COMPASS programs, young people get to participate in:
  • literacy and Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematic (STEM) learning.
  • activities that are hands-on, project-based, and aligned with educational standards.
  • high quality arts and sports programming.
  • Programs are typically three hours each day, five days per week, including on school holidays.
  • Programs are offered in all five boroughs and in many neighborhoods.

    • Eligibility

    All NYC students in kindergarten to 12th grade are eligible to enroll in COMPASS programs. Each program may have different age and eligibility requirements.

    Required Documents

    To apply, you will need to provide one of the following proofs of identity for your child:

  • Birth certificate
  • Naturalization certificate
  • Official birth records
  • Official school records
  • Passport
  • IDNYC
  • Adoption records
  • Baptismal or another religious certificate

    How to Apply

    Find a program onlineUse Discover DYCD to search for programs in your area.

  • Go to the Discover DYCD (https://discoverdycd.dycdconnect.nyc/programme-public?categoryList=Afterschool%20Programs) website.
  • Select "afterschool programs" and click on "Search".In-personTo enroll your child in a COMPASS NYC program, contact the afterschool program staff at your child’s school.

    Online

    You can use Discover DYCD to find programs in your area. To get started:

  • Go to the Discover DYCD (https://discoverdycd.dycdconnect.nyc/) website.
  • Select "afterschool programs" and click on "Search".

    Find an afterschool program

    Get Help

    OnlineLearn more about COMPASS from (http://www1.nyc.gov/site/dycd/services/after-school/comprehensive-after-school-system-of-new-york-city-compass.page) DYCD.CallCall DYCD Community Connect at 800-246-4646 or 646-343-6800. You can also speak to the afterschool program staff at your child's school for more information.Call 311Ask for "Comprehensive After School Program assistance."

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