Free vs. Tuition-Based Pre-K

Austin ISD Pre-K is available for free for children who are eligible. We also offer tuition-based Pre-K for students who don't meet the qualifications for free Pre-K.

Free PRE-K Eligibility Criteria

The student must be three (3) years of age on or by September 1st of the school year seeking to enroll, and:

  1. limited in the ability to speak and/or comprehend the English language, or
  2. eligible for free or reduced lunch based on the family’s income; or
  3. homeless, as defined by 42 U.S.C. Section 1143a; or
  4. the child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who is ordered to active duty by proper authority; or the child of a member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who was injured or killed while serving on active duty; or
  5. has been in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services following an adversary hearing held as provided by Section 262.201, Family Code.
  6. the child of a person eligible for the Star of Texas Award as:
    • peace officer under Section 3106.002, Government Code;
    • a firefighter under Section 3106.003, Government Code; or
    • an emergency medical first responder under Section 3106.004, Government Code.
    • A child eligible for enrollment under item 4 or 5 above remains eligible if the child’s parent leaves the armed forces or is no longer on active duty after the child begins prekindergarten.

Tuition-Based Pre-K Cost

Program 

Monthly Cost

Pre-K4 Full-day 

$700 (Proposed - 2025-26 School Year)

Pre-K3 Half-day 

$350 (Proposed - 2025-26 School Year)

Note: Discounted tuition available for Austin ISD staff.

Where will my child attend Pre-K?

  • A family may choose to apply to any campus in Austin ISD that offers free or tuition-based Pre-K. 
  • View Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 locations. Or use school finder to find your school.