Does West Virginia offer free preschool?

Yes. West Virginia funds the West Virginia Universal Pre-K for 4 years old by September 1. West Virginia's West Virginia Universal Pre-K is universal — no income test. All eligible 4-year-olds who live in West Virginia qualify.

What are the income limits for free preschool in West Virginia?

West Virginia's West Virginia Universal Pre-K is universal — no income test. All eligible 4-year-olds who live in West Virginia qualify.

✓ Universal Pre-K — No Income Test

Free Preschool in West Virginia

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

West Virginia pre-K enrollment typically runs February through May. Apply through West Virginia Department of Education. All West Virginia 4-year-olds qualify — no income test, no application required beyond enrollment. Register through your local public school. One of the most accessible universal pre-K programs in the country.

Q: How do I apply for free preschool in West Virginia?

Apply through West Virginia Department of Education. All West Virginia 4-year-olds qualify — no income test, no application required beyond enrollment. Register through your local public school. One of the most accessible universal pre-K programs in the country. You can start your application at https://wvde.us/early-learning/universal-pre-k/.

2026 eligibility, age requirements, and how to apply

West Virginia offers free pre-K to all eligible 4-year-olds through West Virginia Universal Pre-K. No income test.

Age

4 years old by September 1

Income limit

None (universal)

Schedule

Full school day

Apply by

February through May

West Virginia Free Preschool: Program Details

Program name

West Virginia Universal Pre-K

Age requirement

4 years old by September 1

Income limit

Universal — no income test

Schedule

Full school day (6.5 hours, 180 days)

Enrollment

February through May

Administered by

West Virginia Department of Education

How to Apply for Free Preschool in West Virginia

Applications are handled by West Virginia Department of Education.

Check age and income eligibility

Your child must be 4 years old by September 1. No income verification required.

Apply during enrollment window

West Virginia 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. All West Virginia 4-year-olds qualify — no income test, no application required beyond enrollment. Register through your local public school. One of the most accessible universal pre-K programs in the country.

Apply through West Virginia Department →

What to know before you apply

• All West Virginia 4-year-olds qualify — no income test, no application required beyond enrollment. Register through your local public school. One of the most accessible universal pre-K programs in the country.
• Head Start is a backup option if state seats run out. It serves families below 100% FPL and is federally funded nationwide.