Does Maryland offer free preschool?

Yes. Maryland funds the Maryland State Pre-K for 4 years old (some districts serve 3-year-olds). Families must earn below 300% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $96,500/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Maryland?

Families must earn below 300% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $96,500/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in Maryland

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

Maryland pre-K enrollment typically runs January through March. Apply through Maryland State Department of Education. Maryland's pre-K program is income-targeted but has one of the broadest income limits (up to 300% FPL). A family of 4 earning up to about $94,000/year may qualify. Enroll through local public schools.

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

Apply through Maryland State Department of Education. Maryland's pre-K program is income-targeted but has one of the broadest income limits (up to 300% FPL). A family of 4 earning up to about $94,000/year may qualify. Enroll through local public schools. You can start your application at https://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/families.

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Maryland's Maryland State Pre-K is free for families earning below 300% of the federal poverty level. For a family of 4, that's roughly $96,500/year.

Age

4 years old (some districts serve 3-year-olds)

Income limit

Up to 300% FPL

Schedule

Half day or full day depending on district

Apply by

January through March

Maryland Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Maryland State Pre-K

Age requirement

4 years old (some districts serve 3-year-olds)

Income limit

300% FPL or below (priority for lower-income families)

Schedule

Half day or full day depending on district

Enrollment

January through March

Administered by

Maryland State Department of Education

Do You Qualify? Income Check

Maryland uses 300% of the federal poverty level as its income threshold. FPL scales by household size.

Household size	Annual income limit	Monthly income limit
1 people	$45,200/year	$3,770/month
2 people	$61,300/year	$5,110/month
3 people	$77,500/year	$6,460/month
4 people (reference)	$93,600/year	$7,800/month
5 people	$109,700/year	$9,140/month
6+ people	$125,900/year	$10,490/month

Based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines at 300% FPL. Gross income before taxes. Contact Maryland State Department of Education to confirm current thresholds.

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Maryland

Applications are handled by Maryland State Department of Education.

Check age and income eligibility

Your child must be 4 years old (some districts serve 3-year-olds). Gather recent pay stubs or tax returns to verify income.

Apply during enrollment window

Maryland 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. Maryland's pre-K program is income-targeted but has one of the broadest income limits (up to 300% FPL). A family of 4 earning up to about $94,000/year may qualify. Enroll through local public schools.

Apply through Maryland State Department →

What to know before you apply

• Maryland's pre-K program is income-targeted but has one of the broadest income limits (up to 300% FPL). A family of 4 earning up to about $94,000/year may qualify. Enroll through local public schools.
• 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.