Does Illinois offer free preschool?

Yes. Illinois funds the Illinois Preschool for All (PFA) for 3-4 years old. Eligibility is based on at-risk criteria including low income, developmental delays, English learner status, or other qualifying factors. Contact Illinois's Illinois State Board of Education to determine if your family qualifies.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Illinois?

Eligibility is based on at-risk criteria including low income, developmental delays, English learner status, or other qualifying factors. Contact Illinois's Illinois State Board of Education to determine if your family qualifies.

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in Illinois

Q: When do I enroll my child in Illinois pre-K?

Illinois pre-K enrollment typically runs February through April. Apply through Illinois State Board of Education. 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.

Q: How do I apply for free preschool in Illinois?

Apply through Illinois State Board of Education. 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. You can start your application at https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Early-Childhood-Education.aspx.

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.

Age

3-4 years old

Income limit

At-risk criteria

Schedule

Part-day or full day depending on district

Apply by

February through April

Illinois Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Illinois Preschool for All (PFA)

Age requirement

3-4 years old

Income limit

Priority for at-risk families; income and other risk factors

Schedule

Part-day or full day depending on district

Enrollment

February through April

Administered by

Illinois State Board of Education

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.

Apply through Illinois State Board →

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 below 100% FPL and is federally funded nationwide.