Does Texas offer free preschool?

Yes. Texas funds the Texas Pre-K (TEA) for 4 years old (3-year-olds also qualify with risk factors). Families must earn below 185% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $59,500/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Texas?

Families must earn below 185% of the federal poverty level. A family of 4 earning up to approximately $59,500/year may qualify. Other at-risk factors may also qualify your child.

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in Texas

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

Texas pre-K enrollment typically runs February through April. Apply through Texas Education Agency. Texas has large pre-K programs in most districts. Eligibility is broad — military families, foster children, and English learners qualify in addition to low-income families. Enroll through your local school district.

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

Apply through Texas Education Agency. Texas has large pre-K programs in most districts. Eligibility is broad — military families, foster children, and English learners qualify in addition to low-income families. Enroll through your local school district. You can start your application at https://tea.texas.gov/academics/early-childhood-education.

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Texas's Texas Pre-K (TEA) is free for families earning below 185% of the federal poverty level. For a family of 4, that's roughly $59,500/year.

Age

4 years old (3-year-olds also qualify with risk factors)

Income limit

Up to 185% FPL

Schedule

Minimum half day

Apply by

February through April

Texas Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Texas Pre-K (TEA)

Age requirement

4 years old (3-year-olds also qualify with risk factors)

Income limit

Multiple eligibility paths: income below 185% FPL, or military family, or foster/homeless, or limited English proficiency

Schedule

Minimum half day (3 hours); most districts offer full day

Enrollment

February through April

Administered by

Texas Education Agency

Do You Qualify? Income Check

Texas uses 185% of the federal poverty level as its income threshold. FPL scales by household size.

Household size	Annual income limit	Monthly income limit
1 people	$27,900/year	$2,330/month
2 people	$37,800/year	$3,150/month
3 people	$47,800/year	$3,980/month
4 people (reference)	$57,700/year	$4,810/month
5 people	$67,700/year	$5,640/month
6+ people	$77,600/year	$6,470/month

Based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines at 185% FPL. Gross income before taxes. Contact Texas Education Agency to confirm current thresholds.

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Texas

Applications are handled by Texas Education Agency.

Check age and income eligibility

Your child must be 4 years old (3-year-olds also qualify with risk factors). Gather recent pay stubs or tax returns to verify income.

Apply during enrollment window

Texas 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. Texas has large pre-K programs in most districts. Eligibility is broad — military families, foster children, and English learners qualify in addition to low-income families. Enroll through your local school district.

Apply through Texas Education Agency →

What to know before you apply

• Texas has large pre-K programs in most districts. Eligibility is broad — military families, foster children, and English learners qualify in addition to low-income families. Enroll through your local 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.