Does Arkansas offer free preschool?

Yes. Arkansas funds the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) Pre-K for 3-4 years old by August 1. Families must earn below 200% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $64,300/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Arkansas?

Families must earn below 200% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $64,300/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

When do I enroll my child in Arkansas pre-K?

Arkansas pre-K enrollment typically runs February through April. Apply through Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. 4-year-olds get priority. 3-year-olds may qualify with additional risk factors. Apply through local public school or licensed childcare center.

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in Arkansas

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Arkansas's Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) Pre-K is free for families earning below 200% of the federal poverty level. For a family of 4, that's roughly $64,300/year.

Age

3-4 years old by August 1

Income limit

Up to 200% FPL

Schedule

Full day

Apply by

February through April

Arkansas Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) Pre-K

Age requirement

3-4 years old by August 1

Income limit

200% FPL or below, or other at-risk factors

Schedule

Full day (360 minutes/day)

Enrollment

February through April

Administered by

Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Do You Qualify? Income Check

Arkansas uses 200% of the federal poverty level as its income threshold. FPL scales by household size.

Household size	Annual income limit	Monthly income limit
1 people	$30,100/year	$2,510/month
2 people	$40,900/year	$3,410/month
3 people	$51,600/year	$4,300/month
4 people (reference)	$62,400/year	$5,200/month
5 people	$73,200/year	$6,100/month
6+ people	$83,900/year	$6,990/month

Based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines at 200% FPL. Gross income before taxes. Contact Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education to confirm current thresholds.

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Arkansas

Applications are handled by Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Check age and income eligibility

Your child must be 3-4 years old by August 1. Gather recent pay stubs or tax returns to verify income.

Apply during enrollment window

Arkansas pre-K enrollment typically runs February through April. Apply early — many programs fill quickly.

Choose a provider

Programs run through public schools and licensed childcare centers. 4-year-olds get priority. 3-year-olds may qualify with additional risk factors. Apply through local public school or licensed childcare center.

Apply through Arkansas Division of →

What to know before you apply

• 4-year-olds get priority. 3-year-olds may qualify with additional risk factors. Apply through local public school or licensed childcare center.
• Even if your income is above the limit, your child may qualify based on developmental delays, English learner status, or other at-risk factors — ask when you apply.
• Head Start is a backup option if state seats run out. It serves families below 100% FPL and is federally funded nationwide.