Elementary schools have started accepting kindergarten applications for the 2012-13 school year. Welcome to the wacky world of New York City's elementary school admissions.

Your 5-year-old is guaranteed a seat in kindergarten whenever you register—whether months in advance, the first day of school or even after the school year has begun. However, it's best to apply early if you hope to enroll in an overcrowded neighborhood school, or if you want to explore other options.

Apply by the March 2 deadline to ensure your best shot at getting a seat at the school of your choice.

At most schools, you must apply in person. Be sure to bring your child's birth certificate or passport and two documents that provide proof of residence. You do NOT need proof of citizenship or a social security card to go attend city pubic schools.

In general, your child is guaranteed a seat in your zoned neighborhood school. (Call 311 to find out which school that is.) In recent years, however, some very popular schools have become so overcrowded that they cannot accommodate all the children who live in their zone. In these cases, the schools maintain waiting lists. Many children are eventually admitted off the waiting list (as families who originally enrolled their children move out of the city or opt for private school or gifted programs). However, in some cases, your zoned school may be too crowded. In that case the Office of Student Enrollment may send your child to another school.

You will be notified between March 19 ad March 23 what school your child has been assigned to. You should then register your child by April 20.

For more details on the application process, visit the Education Department's website.

Many schools offer tours in January and February. Before you go, check out our video on what to look for.

Still confused? Come to our free forum on how to choose an elementary school. Clara Hemphill, the InsideSchools staff and other experts will be on hand to answer all your questions.

Tuesday, February 7 from 6-8p.m. at 55 West 13th Street, Manhattan. RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .