Help Paying for Preschool in Vermont (2026)
Preschool is expensive, but Vermont 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 in Vermont
Head Start is free, federally funded preschool (ages 3–5; Early Head Start under 3) for families at or below the federal poverty line — about $33,000 for a family of four in Vermont (2026) — and it's free regardless of income if your family is experiencing homelessness, your child is in foster care, or you receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI. See the full income limits by household size → · Find a Vermont program →
Public pre-K in Vermont
Vermont's public pre-K, Universal Prekindergarten (Act 166), is open to all age-eligible children regardless of income (age 3, 4, or 5 by September 1 and not in kindergarten; min. 10 hrs/week, 35 weeks) — free, though seats can be limited, so apply early. Official Vermont program info →
Childcare subsidy in Vermont
Separate from preschool programs, Vermont's childcare subsidy — Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) — helps working families pay for care (infants and toddlers included, not just preschoolers), for income up to families at or below 575% of the federal poverty level (lowest incomes free; higher incomes a partial benefit) — roughly $189,750 for a family of four — measured against the federal poverty level. Under Act 76, near-universal coverage up to 575% FPL. Apply or learn more →
See also: when your child can start school in Vermont · how to afford preschool · how much preschool costs.