Does Indiana offer free preschool?

Yes. Indiana funds the On My Way Pre-K for 4 years old by August 1. Families must earn below 127% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $40,800/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Indiana?

Families must earn below 127% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $40,800/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

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

Indiana pre-K enrollment typically runs January through March. Apply through Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. Limited to certain counties and income-eligible families. A family of 4 earning up to about $38,000/year may qualify. Apply early — funding is limited.

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in Indiana

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Indiana's On My Way Pre-K is free for families earning below 127% of the federal poverty level. For a family of 4, that's roughly $40,800/year.

Age

4 years old by August 1

Income limit

Up to 127% FPL

Schedule

Full day

Apply by

January through March

Indiana Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

On My Way Pre-K

Age requirement

4 years old by August 1

Income limit

127% FPL or below

Schedule

Full day (10 hours/day) or school day (6 hours/day)

Enrollment

January through March

Administered by

Indiana Family and Social Services Administration

Do You Qualify? Income Check

Indiana uses 127% of the federal poverty level as its income threshold. FPL scales by household size.

Household size	Annual income limit	Monthly income limit
1 people	$19,100/year	$1,590/month
2 people	$26,000/year	$2,170/month
3 people	$32,800/year	$2,730/month
4 people (reference)	$39,600/year	$3,300/month
5 people	$46,500/year	$3,880/month
6+ people	$53,300/year	$4,440/month

Based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines at 127% FPL. Gross income before taxes. Contact Indiana Family and Social Services Administration to confirm current thresholds.

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Indiana

Applications are handled by Indiana Family and Social Services Administration.

Check age and income eligibility

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

Apply during enrollment window

Indiana pre-K enrollment typically runs January through March. Apply early — many programs fill quickly.

Choose a provider

Programs run through public schools and licensed childcare centers. Limited to certain counties and income-eligible families. A family of 4 earning up to about $38,000/year may qualify. Apply early — funding is limited.

Apply through Indiana Family and →

What to know before you apply

• Limited to certain counties and income-eligible families. A family of 4 earning up to about $38,000/year may qualify. Apply early — funding is limited.
• 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.