Is Pre-K Free in Illinois?
2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply
Illinois's Illinois Preschool for All (PFA) is free for families that meet income or at-risk eligibility criteria.
Illinois Free Preschool: Program Details
How to Apply for Free Preschool in Illinois
Applications are handled by Illinois State Board of Education.
Check age and income eligibility
Your child must be 3-4 years old. Gather recent pay stubs or tax returns to verify income.
Apply during enrollment window
Illinois 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. Eligibility based on risk factors including low income, developmental delays, homelessness, or a parent without a high school diploma. Apply through your local school district.
What to know before you apply
- • Eligibility based on risk factors including low income, developmental delays, homelessness, or a parent without a high school diploma. Apply through your local school district.
- • 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 at or below 100% FPL (plus TANF, SSI, foster, and homeless families) and is federally funded nationwide.
Free Preschool in Other States
More for Illinois Families
CCDF Childcare Subsidy in Illinois
Income limits and how to apply
Daycare Costs in Illinois
Average by age and care type
Child Care Tax Credits
Federal and state tax credit calculator
Can I Afford Daycare?
Affordability ratio calculator
Cost Calculator
Your estimated monthly daycare cost
All State Pre-K Programs
Compare across 50 states
Illinois Family Assistance Programs
Families who qualify for one program often qualify for others. Check each one.
Childcare Subsidy (CCDF)
Income limits and how to apply in Illinois
Head Start Eligibility
Free early education for low-income families
WIC Benefits
Food assistance for children under 5
Free School Meals
NSLP income limits for school-age kids
Childcare Tax Credits
Federal + Illinois state credits
SNAP (Food Stamps)
Grocery benefits — income limits in Illinois
TANF Cash Assistance
Monthly cash benefits for families with children
Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
Help paying heating and cooling bills
Section 8 Housing
Housing vouchers — income limits and waitlists