Does New Jersey offer free preschool?

Yes. New Jersey funds the New Jersey Abbott Pre-K / Preschool Expansion Aid 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 New Jersey's New Jersey Department of Education to determine if your family qualifies.

What are the income limits for free preschool in New Jersey?

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

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in New Jersey

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

New Jersey pre-K enrollment typically runs February through April. Apply through New Jersey Department of Education. If you live in a high-need Abbott district, all 3- and 4-year-olds qualify for free full-day pre-K. Enroll through your local school district or licensed provider. Non-Abbott families may still qualify through expansion aid programs.

Q: How do I apply for free preschool in New Jersey?

Apply through New Jersey Department of Education. If you live in a high-need Abbott district, all 3- and 4-year-olds qualify for free full-day pre-K. Enroll through your local school district or licensed provider. Non-Abbott families may still qualify through expansion aid programs. You can start your application at https://www.nj.gov/njdoe/earlychildhood/finding-preschool.html.

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

New Jersey's New Jersey Abbott Pre-K / Preschool Expansion Aid is free for families that meet income or at-risk eligibility criteria.

Age

3-4 years old

Income limit

At-risk criteria

Schedule

Full day

Apply by

February through April

New Jersey Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

New Jersey Abbott Pre-K / Preschool Expansion Aid

Age requirement

3-4 years old

Income limit

All families in Abbott districts qualify; income-targeted in non-Abbott districts

Schedule

Full day (10 hours/day in Abbott districts)

Enrollment

February through April

Administered by

New Jersey Department of Education

How to Apply for Free Preschool in New Jersey

Applications are handled by New Jersey Department 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

New Jersey 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. If you live in a high-need Abbott district, all 3- and 4-year-olds qualify for free full-day pre-K. Enroll through your local school district or licensed provider. Non-Abbott families may still qualify through expansion aid programs.

Apply through New Jersey Department →

What to know before you apply

• If you live in a high-need Abbott district, all 3- and 4-year-olds qualify for free full-day pre-K. Enroll through your local school district or licensed provider. Non-Abbott families may still qualify through expansion aid programs.
• 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.