OMNI Childhood Center
How to Refer Your Child for Special Education CSE in NYC
If your child is between ages 5 and 21 and you have concerns about their learning or development, you have the right to request a free evaluation from NYC Public Schools — at any time, in any language. It starts with one letter.
One important thing to know: the request goes directly from you to the DOE — no agency can send it for you. The good news? It's simpler than it sounds, and this guide shows you exactly what to do.
The 5 steps
Note: this page is a guide only — Omni does not submit CSE referrals. Only the EI, CPSE services has an Omni referral form.
Write a short referral letter
State that you are requesting a special education evaluation. Include your child's full legal name and date of birth, any services your child receives or has received, your name, address, and phone number, and your preferred language if it's not English.
No forms, no fees, no diagnosis needed.
Your child is evaluated — free of charge
Once you give consent, NYCPS has 60 calendar days to evaluate your child in all areas of concern.
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Send it to the right place
If your child attends a NYC public school, give, mail, or fax the letter to your child's school principal. If your child attends a private or parochial school, or isn't enrolled yet, send it to your local Committee on Special Education (CSE) office.
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The IEP meeting
You'll meet with the IEP team to review results and decide together whether your child is eligible for services — and which ones. You are a full member of this team.
Sign the consent form
NYCPS will send you a “Consent for Initial Evaluation” form in your preferred language. Nothing moves forward until you sign it.
FAQ's What parents ask before requesting an evaluation with the DOE (NYCPS)