NC Pre-K (Eligible 4-year-olds)
The NC Pre-K program is a free pre-kindergarten program for children whose families meet eligibility requirements. Look below for more information.
The NC Pre-K program is offered at participating Guilford County Schools, Head Start programs, and licensed four- and five-star private providers. There are 2,196 NC Pre-K slots in Guilford County for the current school year. Priority is given to children who have not had prior preschool experience. NC Pre-K services are offered at no charge to eligible children. If you have other questions, please check out our FAQ.
- Looking for our School Locator Map? Find it here.
Who is eligible?
- For school year 2021-2022, eligible children must be four-years-old on or before August 31, 2021.
- For school year 2022-2023, eligible children must be four-years-old on or before August 31, 2022.
One of the following must also be true:
- The child’s family meets the income eligibility (PDF) OR
- The child has limited English proficiency OR
- The child has an identified disability OR
- The child has a chronic health condition OR
- The child has developmental or educational need OR
- The child has a parent who is active duty military.
What you need before applying
Applicants MUST have the following to be complete:
- Proof of birth: copy of birth certificate or medical records or immunization record
- Proof of residency: copy of current utility bill or rental agreement
- Proof of income: copy of 1040 or W2 from or 4 consecutive pay stubs
- For school year 2021-2022, please submit 2020 taxes or your 2020 W-2.
- For school year 2022-2023, please submit 2021 taxes or 2021 W-2.
- Additional income if applicable: court-ordered child support, unemployment benefits, workers compensation
- If applicable, documentation of chronic health condition, parent's military service, developmental or educational needs and/or IEP
Apply for Pre-K
Need additional help?
Click below for a video that outlines the application process.
