Michigan’s Free Preschool Programs
Set Your Child Up for Success – for Free!
A quality preschool 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 offers two high quality free preschool programs: Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) and Head Start. Both programs use best practices to help children prepare for success in kindergarten and beyond. More children are eligible now as Michigan works toward its goal of PreK For All – free PreK for 4 year olds.
The Country’s Top-Rated Preschool Program is Here
Michigan’s GSRP PreKindergarten (PreK) program is ranked #1 nationally. The majority of Michigan 4-year-olds qualify for free! Free preschool and PreK follow a school year schedule that runs early September through June with full day, part day and 4 and 5-day options.
Find a Quality Free Preschool Near You
Get your child started on the road to success. Search for a quality free preschool by location, hours, availability, and more – all in one place.
Successful Futures – Empowered by Preschool
About Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP)
- Ranked #1 nationally
- Child must be 4 years old by Dec. 1
- Majority of 4-year-olds qualify for free
- Smaller class sizes with more one-on-one attention
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for free preschool?
The majority of Michigan’s 4-year-olds qualify based on household income, including many families who didn’t think they would. You are encouraged to apply and see if your family is eligible. Children with a qualifying IEP, who are in foster care, or children who are experiencing homelessness are also eligible. There are other factors outside of income that may make children eligible.
How do I apply for free preschool and PreK?
Follow these easy steps!
- Search by zip code to find a free preschool or PreK near your home or work
- Select a program based on your needs
- Contact the program or click the GSRP application button on the program profile to complete an application
Learn more about the process
When should I apply for free preschool and PreK?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Families can apply during the spring or summer for the fall school year start.
When will I hear if my child is enrolled?
Programs enroll children based on the eligibility criteria and when they receive applications. Families that apply in the spring typically hear by May/June. Those that apply in the summer often hear within a few weeks. Free preschool programs prioritize the enrollment of children from households with lower incomes. Therefore, children from families with higher household income may be enrolled later or placed on a waiting list, depending on available space in classrooms. Enrollment for children turning 4 between September 2 and December 1, 2024 may also be delayed.
Do GSRP locations offer before and after school care?
Some locations offer before and after school care. Many program profiles list this information. You can also contact the program via their phone number or website to confirm.
Do free preschool programs offer transportation?
Some locations offer transportation. Review the program profile or contact the program through their phone number to confirm.
What if my child doesn't qualify? Are there other options?
There are plenty of other high-quality preschools that are private pay. Use the Great Start to Quality website to find a program that fits your needs. Great Start to Quality Resource Centers can also help you with your search. Call them at 877.614.7328
What is the difference between free preschool and free PreK?
A free preschool program may serve children ages 3 to 5 years old. A free PreK program is PreKindergarten and is for children who turn 4 years old by December 1.
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.
