Help Paying for Preschool in District of Columbia (2026)
Preschool is expensive, but District of Columbia families have three main ways to lower or eliminate the cost: Head Start, public pre-K, and a childcare subsidy. Here's who qualifies for each — then check your family in seconds.
Could your family qualify for help? Check it
A quick, private estimate — nothing is stored unless you ask for reminders. This is guidance, not a determination.
✓ Sent. Next: find preschools near you.
Head Start & Early Head Start
Free, federally funded preschool (Head Start for ages 3–5, Early Head Start under 3). It's for families at or below the federal poverty line — or who qualify on other factors. Income limits in District of Columbia (2026):
| Household size | Income at or below (100% FPL, 2026) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $27,320 |
| 4 | $33,000 |
| 5 | $38,680 |
| 6 | $44,360 |
You can also qualify regardless of income if your family is experiencing homelessness, your child is in foster care, or you receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI. Find a Head Start program in District of Columbia →
Public pre-K in District of Columbia
District of Columbia's public pre-K, DC Universal Pre-K (PK3 and PK4), is open to all age-eligible children regardless of income (PK3: turn 3 by September 30; PK4: turn 4 by September 30 — free/universal (in-boundary seat via lottery)) — free, though seats can be limited, so apply early. Official District of Columbia program info →
Childcare subsidy in District of Columbia
Separate from preschool programs, District of Columbia's childcare subsidy — DC Child Care Subsidy Program — helps working families pay for care, for income up to at or below 300% of the federal poverty level (about $99,000 for a family of four). A new-applicant waitlist began May 2026 (protective-services/homeless enroll immediately). Apply or learn more →
See also: when your child can start school in District of Columbia · how to afford preschool · how much preschool costs.