Washington Kindergarten Age Cutoff — Plus Preschool & TK (2026–2027)
In Washington, a child must turn 5 by August 31 to start kindergarten that fall. Washington offers Transitional Kindergarten (TK) — a grade before kindergarten (at least 4 by August 31). Transition to Kindergarten (TTK) — district-offered and screening/readiness-based; statewide funding is capped for 2025-26 and 2026-27, so availability varies by district (not universal like California TK). Washington's public pre-K program, Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), is available to eligible families (age 3 or 4 by August 31; income-based (~36% of state median income) plus at-risk criteria; becomes an entitlement for eligible children starting 2026-27).
| Kindergarten cutoff | Turn 5 by August 31 |
|---|---|
| Transitional Kindergarten | at least 4 by August 31 |
| Public pre-K | Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) — eligibility-based |
| Compulsory school age | 8 |
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Washington age cutoffs — the details
Kindergarten and TK cutoffs are set by state law; preschool has no legal age cutoff because it is private. Cutoff verified from the official Washington source. Always confirm the current date with your school or district — rules can change year to year.