Does Virginia offer free preschool?

Yes. Virginia funds the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) / VPI+ for 4 years old by September 30. 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 Virginia?

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 Virginia pre-K?

Virginia pre-K enrollment typically runs January through March. Apply through Virginia Department of Education. A family of 4 earning up to about $62,000/year may qualify. Apply through your local school division. VPI+ offers wraparound care in some districts.

Income-Based Eligibility

Free Preschool in Virginia

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

Virginia's Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) / VPI+ is free for families earning below 200% of the federal poverty level. For a family of 4, that's roughly $64,300/year.

Age

4 years old by September 30

Income limit

Up to 200% FPL

Schedule

Full school day

Apply by

January through March

Virginia Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) / VPI+

Age requirement

4 years old by September 30

Income limit

200% FPL or below

Schedule

Full school day (6 hours, 180 days)

Enrollment

January through March

Administered by

Virginia Department of Education

Do You Qualify? Income Check

Virginia 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 Virginia Department of Education to confirm current thresholds.

How to Apply for Free Preschool in Virginia

Applications are handled by Virginia Department of Education.

Check age and income eligibility

Your child must be 4 years old by September 30. Gather recent pay stubs or tax returns to verify income.

Apply during enrollment window

Virginia pre-K enrollment typically runs January through March. 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 your local school division. VPI+ offers wraparound care in some districts.

Apply through Virginia Department of →

What to know before you apply

• A family of 4 earning up to about $62,000/year may qualify. Apply through your local school division. VPI+ offers wraparound care in some districts.
• 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.