UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL
Free preschool hours for every Colorado 4-year-old
Colorado's Universal Preschool program (UPK) gives every child tuition-free preschool hours in the year before kindergarten β at the provider you choose.
Who is eligible?
Children who turn 4 years old on or before October 1 are eligible for funded preschool hours during the school year before they start kindergarten. Some 3-year-olds with qualifying factors are also eligible. UPK funding follows your child to any participating provider β a child care center, preschool, family child care home, or school.
How many free hours?
Every 4-year-old
All age-eligible children qualify for 10β15 tuition-free hours per week during the preschool year.
Up to 30 hours
Children may qualify for more hours β up to full-day β based on factors such as lower family income, being a dual-language learner, having an IEP, or experiencing foster care or homelessness.
How to apply
It's free, and you choose your provider.
1 Β· Create an account
Go to upk.colorado.gov and set up your free family account.
2 Β· Find providers
Start with your existing provider. Ask them if they are participating in the state UPK program.Β If they are, the continuity of care supports your child's social emotional health.Β If they don't, search participating preschools and child care programs near your home or work and rank your choices.
3 Β· Match & enroll
You'll be matched with a provider and finish enrollment. Already have a provider in mind? Ask them about Direct Enrollment.
Another free option: Head Start
Head Start is a federally funded program offered across Colorado that supports children's early learning, health, and family wellbeing β at no cost to eligible families. It can be an alternative or a complement to UPK.
Early Head Start
Free services for pregnant women and children from birth to age 3 β including early learning, health and developmental screenings, and family support.
Head Start (ages 3β5)
Free preschool for children ages 3β5 focused on school readiness, healthy development, and family engagement. Many programs pair with UPK hours.
Who qualifies: Families at or below the federal poverty level β and many others, including children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and those receiving SSI or TANF.
Ready to enroll your child?
Apply any time at UPK Colorado. Questions?
Call 303-866-5223 (MonβFri, 8amβ6pm) or
email [email protected].