Does Vermont offer free preschool?

Yes. Vermont funds the Vermont Universal Pre-K (Act 166) for 3-4 years old. Vermont's Vermont Universal Pre-K (Act 166) is universal — no income test. All eligible 3- and 4-year-olds who live in Vermont qualify.

What are the income limits for free preschool in Vermont?

Vermont's Vermont Universal Pre-K (Act 166) is universal — no income test. All eligible 3- and 4-year-olds who live in Vermont qualify.

✓ Universal Pre-K — No Income Test

Is Pre-K Free in Vermont?

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

Vermont pre-K enrollment typically runs Ongoing — enroll anytime. Apply through Vermont Agency of Education. All Vermont 3- and 4-year-olds get 10 hours/week of free pre-K — no income test. Apply through any participating licensed provider or public school. Year-round enrollment.

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

Apply through Vermont Agency of Education. All Vermont 3- and 4-year-olds get 10 hours/week of free pre-K — no income test. Apply through any participating licensed provider or public school. Year-round enrollment. You can start your application at https://childcare.vermont.gov/programs.

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Vermont offers free pre-K to all eligible 3- and 4-year-olds through Vermont Universal Pre-K (Act 166). No income test.

Age

3-4 years old

Income limit

None (universal)

Schedule

10 hours/week minimum

Apply by

Ongoing — enroll anytime

Vermont Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Vermont Universal Pre-K (Act 166)

Age requirement

3-4 years old

Income limit

Universal — no income test

Schedule

10 hours/week minimum

Enrollment

Ongoing — enroll anytime

Administered by

Vermont Agency of Education

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Vermont

Applications are handled by Vermont Agency of Education.

Check age and income eligibility

Your child must be 3-4 years old. No income verification required.

Apply during enrollment window

Vermont pre-K enrollment typically runs Ongoing — enroll anytime. Apply early — many programs fill quickly.

Choose a provider

Programs run through public schools and licensed childcare centers. All Vermont 3- and 4-year-olds get 10 hours/week of free pre-K — no income test. Apply through any participating licensed provider or public school. Year-round enrollment.

Apply through Vermont Agency of →

What to know before you apply

• All Vermont 3- and 4-year-olds get 10 hours/week of free pre-K — no income test. Apply through any participating licensed provider or public school. Year-round enrollment.
• Head Start is a backup option if state seats run out. It serves families below 100% FPL and is federally funded nationwide.