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Georgia Pre-K

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Georgia Pre-K program.

What is the Georgia Pre-K Program?

The Georgia Pre-K Program is a free, state-funded preschool program for eligible four-year-olds. Offering a 6.5‑hour instructional day, five days a week, over 180 days per school year, it aims to ensure every child enters kindergarten equipped with early literacy, math, and social skills—all at no cost to families.

How do I apply for Pre-K?

  1. Ensure your child is eligible – must be a Georgia resident and turn 4 by September 1 of the school year.

  2. Gather documents – proof of age (birth certificate, passport, hospital birth record, etc.) and proof of residency (lease, utility bill, vehicle registration, etc.).

  3. Find a local program – use DECAL’s Pre-K provider search (school system or child care learning center).

  4. Apply directly to your provider – each provider sets its own application process, timeline, and selection method (often including lotteries and waitlists).

  5. Follow up – if accepted, the provider will contact you to complete enrollment, including submitting health check forms (vision, hearing, dental, nutrition) and immunization records.

How long does it take to receive approval?

There’s no set statewide timeline – approval depends on each program’s process. Local school systems typically accept applications between January and mid-March, with notifications following soon after. Private centers may vary, but most conclude decisions by late spring.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Confirm your child meets age and residency requirements.

  2. Prepare your eligibility documents.

  3. Search for Pre-K sites via the DECAL search tool.

  4. Complete the application for each provider you’re interested in.

  5. Providers review and notify families of selection.

  6. Complete enrollment requirements (health records, forms).

  7. Begin the program at the start of the school year or as notified by the provider.

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Proof of Age

  • Birth certificate, passport, hospital birth record, or official foreign document.

Proof of Georgia Residency

  • Lease/mortgage, utility bill, vehicle registration, shelter/employer letter, etc.

Health & Enrollment Forms (after acceptance)

  • Hearing, vision, dental, nutrition screening certificates, and current immunization records.

Common FAQs

1. What ages are eligible?
Children who turn 4 years old by September 1 of the program year. Some programs may accept 4-year-olds who turn 4 by December 1, depending on availability.

2. Is there any cost?
No—Georgia Pre-K is completely free for families.

3. Can I apply to multiple programs?
Yes—school systems may limit the number of schools per application, but private learning centers generally allow multiple applications.

4. What if my child isn’t accepted?
Most providers maintain waitlists. If a spot opens up, your child may be accepted during the year.

5. What types of providers are available?
Choices include public school systems and private child care learning centers. Eligibility criteria or application timelines may differ between them.

Who do I contact about my application status?

  • Contact your chosen Pre-K provider for updates on application or waitlist status.

  • Bright from the Start – DECAL Office

    • Phone: (404) 656‑5957 or 1‑877‑ALLGA‑Kids (1‑877‑255‑4254).

    • Address: 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SE, 754 East Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334