Does Oregon offer free preschool?

Yes. Oregon funds the Oregon Preschool Promise for 3-4 years old. Families must earn below 200% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $64,300/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Oregon?

Families must earn below 200% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $64,300/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

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

Oregon pre-K enrollment typically runs January through April. Apply through Oregon Department of Education. A family of 4 earning up to about $62,000/year may qualify. Apply through local participating preschool providers listed on the state portal.

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in Oregon

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Oregon's Oregon Preschool Promise is free for families earning below 200% of the federal poverty level. For a family of 4, that's roughly $64,300/year.

Age

3-4 years old

Income limit

Up to 200% FPL

Schedule

Full day

Apply by

January through April

Oregon Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Oregon Preschool Promise

Age requirement

3-4 years old

Income limit

200% FPL or below

Schedule

Full day (6 hours minimum)

Enrollment

January through April

Administered by

Oregon Department of Education

Do You Qualify? Income Check

Oregon uses 200% of the federal poverty level as its income threshold. FPL scales by household size.

Household size	Annual income limit	Monthly income limit
1 people	$30,100/year	$2,510/month
2 people	$40,900/year	$3,410/month
3 people	$51,600/year	$4,300/month
4 people (reference)	$62,400/year	$5,200/month
5 people	$73,200/year	$6,100/month
6+ people	$83,900/year	$6,990/month

Based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines at 200% FPL. Gross income before taxes. Contact Oregon Department of Education to confirm current thresholds.

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Oregon

Applications are handled by Oregon 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

Oregon 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 $62,000/year may qualify. Apply through local participating preschool providers listed on the state portal.

Apply through Oregon Department of →

What to know before you apply

• A family of 4 earning up to about $62,000/year may qualify. Apply through local participating preschool providers listed on the state portal.
• 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.