Help Paying for Preschool in North Dakota (2026)
Preschool is expensive, but North Dakota 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 North Dakota (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 North Dakota →
Public pre-K in North Dakota
North Dakota's public pre-K, North Dakota Early Childhood Education Grant Program, is income- or risk-based (small grant-based state pre-K (limited seats, need/grant based); not universal). Families under the program's income line — or who qualify on other factors (English learner, disability, foster, homeless) — can attend free. Official North Dakota program info →
Childcare subsidy in North Dakota
Separate from preschool programs, North Dakota's childcare subsidy — Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) — helps working families pay for care, for income up to up to 85% of the state median income. Apply or learn more →
See also: when your child can start school in North Dakota · how to afford preschool · how much preschool costs.