Does Georgia offer free preschool?

Yes. Georgia funds the Georgia's Pre-K Program for 4 years old by September 1. Georgia's Georgia's Pre-K Program is universal — no income test. All eligible 4-year-olds who live in Georgia qualify.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Georgia?

Georgia's Georgia's Pre-K Program is universal — no income test. All eligible 4-year-olds who live in Georgia qualify.

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

Georgia pre-K enrollment typically runs March through May (lottery for oversubscribed programs). Apply through Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). All Georgia 4-year-olds qualify. Programs are lottery-based when oversubscribed. Apply directly through participating public schools and licensed childcare providers.

✓ Universal Pre-K — No Income Test

Free Preschool in Georgia

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Georgia offers free pre-K to all eligible 4-year-olds through Georgia's Pre-K Program. No income test.

Age

4 years old by September 1

Income limit

None (universal)

Schedule

Full day

Apply by

March through May

Georgia Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Georgia's Pre-K Program

Age requirement

4 years old by September 1

Income limit

Universal — no income test

Schedule

Full day (6.5 hours, 180 days)

Enrollment

March through May (lottery for oversubscribed programs)

Administered by

Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL)

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Georgia

Applications are handled by Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL).

Check age and income eligibility

Your child must be 4 years old by September 1. No income verification required.

Apply during enrollment window

Georgia pre-K enrollment typically runs March through May (lottery for oversubscribed programs). Apply early — many programs fill quickly.

Choose a provider

Programs run through public schools and licensed childcare centers. All Georgia 4-year-olds qualify. Programs are lottery-based when oversubscribed. Apply directly through participating public schools and licensed childcare providers.

Apply through Georgia Department of →

What to know before you apply

• All Georgia 4-year-olds qualify. Programs are lottery-based when oversubscribed. Apply directly through participating public schools and licensed childcare providers.
• Head Start is a backup option if state seats run out. It serves families below 100% FPL and is federally funded nationwide.