Does Michigan offer free preschool?

Yes. Michigan funds the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) for 4 years old by December 1. Families must earn below 250% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $80,400/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Michigan?

Families must earn below 250% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $80,400/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in Michigan

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

Michigan pre-K enrollment typically runs January through April. Apply through Michigan Department of Education. A family of 4 earning up to about $78,000/year qualifies. Families above the income limit may still qualify with two risk factors. Apply through your local intermediate school district.

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

Apply through Michigan Department of Education. A family of 4 earning up to about $78,000/year qualifies. Families above the income limit may still qualify with two risk factors. Apply through your local intermediate school district. You can start your application at https://www.michigan.gov/mde/services/early-childhood/great-start-readiness-program.

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Michigan's Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is free for families earning below 250% of the federal poverty level. For a family of 4, that's roughly $80,400/year.

Age

4 years old by December 1

Income limit

Up to 250% FPL

Schedule

School-day

Apply by

January through April

Michigan Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP)

Age requirement

4 years old by December 1

Income limit

250% FPL or below (or two qualifying risk factors)

Schedule

School-day (2.5 to 5 hours/day depending on district)

Enrollment

January through April

Administered by

Michigan Department of Education

Do You Qualify? Income Check

Michigan uses 250% of the federal poverty level as its income threshold. FPL scales by household size.

Household size	Annual income limit	Monthly income limit
1 people	$37,700/year	$3,140/month
2 people	$51,100/year	$4,260/month
3 people	$64,600/year	$5,380/month
4 people (reference)	$78,000/year	$6,500/month
5 people	$91,500/year	$7,630/month
6+ people	$104,900/year	$8,740/month

Based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines at 250% FPL. Gross income before taxes. Contact Michigan Department of Education to confirm current thresholds.

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Michigan

Applications are handled by Michigan Department of Education.

Check age and income eligibility

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

Apply during enrollment window

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

Choose a provider

Programs run through public schools and licensed childcare centers. A family of 4 earning up to about $78,000/year qualifies. Families above the income limit may still qualify with two risk factors. Apply through your local intermediate school district.

Apply through Michigan Department of →

What to know before you apply

• A family of 4 earning up to about $78,000/year qualifies. Families above the income limit may still qualify with two risk factors. Apply through your local intermediate 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.