Does Pennsylvania offer free preschool?

Yes. Pennsylvania funds the Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts for 3-4 years old. 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 Pennsylvania?

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 Pennsylvania

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

Pennsylvania pre-K enrollment typically runs February through May. Apply through Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. A family of 4 earning up to about $94,000/year may qualify. PA Pre-K Counts is one of the more accessible state pre-K programs in terms of income limits. Apply through local program providers.

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

Apply through Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. A family of 4 earning up to about $94,000/year may qualify. PA Pre-K Counts is one of the more accessible state pre-K programs in terms of income limits. Apply through local program providers. You can start your application at https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dhs/resources/early-learning.html.

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

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

Age

3-4 years old

Income limit

Up to 300% FPL

Schedule

Part-day

Apply by

February through May

Pennsylvania Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts

Age requirement

3-4 years old

Income limit

300% FPL or below

Schedule

Part-day (minimum 3.5 hours) or full day

Enrollment

February through May

Administered by

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services

Do You Qualify? Income Check

Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Department of Human Services to confirm current thresholds.

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Pennsylvania

Applications are handled by Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

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

Pennsylvania pre-K enrollment typically runs February through May. 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 $94,000/year may qualify. PA Pre-K Counts is one of the more accessible state pre-K programs in terms of income limits. Apply through local program providers.

Apply through Pennsylvania Department of →

What to know before you apply

• A family of 4 earning up to about $94,000/year may qualify. PA Pre-K Counts is one of the more accessible state pre-K programs in terms of income limits. Apply through local program providers.
• 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.