Michigan’s Free PreK Programs
Set Your Child Up for Success – for Free!
A quality pre-kindergarten (PreK) experience sets your child up for success. It provides fun ways to learn concepts like early math, science, and literacy. It also helps them develop social and emotional skills in a place where all children can learn and grow together.
Michigan’s PreK for All initiative includes multiple free high-quality PreK programs available to families including the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) and Head Start. Head Start enrollment priority is given to families at or below the federal poverty level or $32,150 for a family of four, or who are receiving public assistance like TANF, SSI, or SNAP. GSRP enrollment priority is given to those at or below 400% of the federal poverty limit, or about $128,000 for a family for four. More information about GSRP enrollment is available for providers in the Great Start Readiness Program Implementation Manual.
Quick Zip Code Search
Enter the zip code where you would like to find a program for your child and select the magnifying glass to get results. Select More Info to learn how to access programs in that area.
The Country’s Top-Rated PreK Program is Here
The Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is Michigan’s free PreK for All program for eligible four-year-olds. Ranked #1 in the U.S., GSRP has met all 10 quality benchmarks established by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER), placing it among just six states in the nation to achieve this distinction. The Great Start Readiness Program is a safe place where children learn how to get along with others, share, take turns, and make friends. Math, reading, and thinking skills are taught every day through fun, hands-on activities. GSRP will help make sure your child is prepared for kindergarten and beyond.
Teachers and parents talk about the importance of prekindergarten.
Find a Quality Free PreK Near You
Get your child started on the road to success. Search for a quality free PreK by location, hours, availability, and more – all in one place.
Successful Futures – Empowered by PreK
About Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP)
- Ranked #1 nationally
- Child must be 4 years old by Dec. 1
- All teachers have early childhood education and ongoing training
- Research-based, state-approved curriculum
- Meets all state health and safety standards
- Healthy meals and snacks provided
About Head Start
- For children 3 – 5 years old
- Smaller class sizes for more one-on-one attention
- Meets all state health and safety standards
- Healthy meals and snacks provided
- Offers full and part day schedules
- Additional wrap-around family services provided
Parent Recommendations for GSRP
A quality preschool can set your child up for success.
With a program that provides learning opportunities.
Over 60% of Michigan’s 4-year-olds qualify – for free!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for free PreK?
All children who are 4 years old by Dec. 1 qualify for Michigan’s PreK for All program.
The program is available to ALL households, regardless of income; with prioritization for families who need it most.
How do I apply for free PreK?
Follow these three easy steps to find high-quality participating PreK for All programs in your area:
- Go to MiPreKforAll.org.
- Enter your zip code.
- Select your local Intermediate School District (ISD).
- Complete your local ISD’s application.
When should I apply for free PreK?
PreK for All programs are run at the local level and enrollment processes and deadlines are set by the local Intermediate School Districts (ISDs). Most programs will enroll students through January or February of that school year.
If you have a child who will turn 4 before Dec. 1, 2026, reach out to your local ISD today.
You can find contact information for your local ISD by visiting MiPreKforAll.org, entering your zip code and selecting your local ISD.
Do GSRP locations offer before and after school care?
Before- and after-school care is provided in some areas. Your county’s Intermediate School District (ISD) has information about which PreK programs offer before or after care.
You can find contact information for your local ISD by entering your zip code at MiPreKforAll.org and selecting your local ISD.
Do free preschool programs offer transportation?
Some programs offer transportation. Check with your child’s program and with your county’s Intermediate School District (ISD) for programs that offer transportation.
You can find contact information for your local ISD by entering your zip code at MiPreKforAll.org and selecting your local ISD.
What does the program structure or schedule look like for GSRP?
The program follows a routine schedule, however, each program may have slightly different schedules. Download a sample GSRP schedule.
Other Resources
Resource Centers
Great Start to Quality Resource Centers have people who can answer questions and help you with your search.
Private Pay Preschool
There are plenty of quality private pay preschool options available throughout the state.
Effective February 25, 2024, Michigan has removed the requirement to work with the Office of Child Support to receive help paying for child care. Check to see if you are now eligible!