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Seattle Preschool Program (SPP)

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Seattle Preschool Program.

What is the Seattle Preschool Program?

The Seattle Preschool Program helps Seattle families get their 3 and 4-year-old children ready for kindergarten. This free or low-cost program uses research-based teaching methods to help children learn important skills before they start elementary school. 

How do I apply for the Seattle Preschool Program?

There are 3 main ways to apply for the Seattle Preschool Program:

  • Apply Online: Visit the Seattle Preschool Program online portal to submit your application
  • Apply by Phone: Call (206) 386-1050 and staff will help you complete your application over the phone
  • Apply by Mail or Fax: Download a paper application in your language and send it by mail or fax:
    • Mail to: Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, 700 5th Ave, Suite 1700, Seattle, WA 98104
    • Fax to: (206) 386-1900
    • Email questions to: preschool@seattle.gov

Paper Applications are available in multiple languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Somali, Amharic, Vietnamese, Oromo, and Tigrinya.

How long does it take to receive a preschool spot?

The timeline depends on when you apply:

  • If you apply between March 14 - April 15: You will hear back by May 1st about whether your child got a spot for September
  • If you apply after April 15: You will be placed on a waitlist and contacted when spots open up throughout the school year
  • Once you get a spot: You'll get an enrollment packet and have about 2 weeks to complete all the paperwork before your child can start

What do the application steps look like?

Step 1: Check if your family qualifies - your child must be 3 or 4 years old by August 31st and live in Seattle

Step 2: Choose up to 5 preschool locations that work for your family using the provider map

Step 3: Complete your application online, by phone, or on paper

Step 4: Submit your application before April 15th for the best chance of getting a spot

Step 5: Wait to hear if your child got a spot (by May 1st for early applications)

Step 6: If you get a spot, complete enrollment paperwork within 2 weeks

Step 7: Submit required documents to prove your child's age, your address, and family income

Step 8: Use the tuition calculator to see what you'll pay each month

Step 9: Start preschool in September!

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Child Information

  • Birth certificate
  • Passport
  • Hospital birth record
  • Adoption papers
  • Court documents showing child's age

Address Verification (must be current within 3 months)

  • Utility bill (gas, electric, water, garbage)
  • Lease agreement or mortgage statement
  • Bank statement
  • Phone bill or cable bill
  • Mail from government agencies
  • Special form for families without housing: Use the Housing Affidavit Form if you are homeless or staying with others

Income Verification (all family income sources)

Note: You can also choose to pay full tuition without sharing income information using the Opt-Out of Income Form.

Common FAQ's

1. How much will I pay for preschool?
Most Seattle families pay nothing! Your cost is based on your family size and income. Use the tuition calculator to see your estimated monthly cost. If you have more than one child in the program, you get a 10% discount on the second child.

2. Who can apply for this program?
Your child must be 3 or 4 years old by August 31st and live within Seattle city limits. Children who turn 5 before August 31st should apply for kindergarten instead. Check if your address qualifies.

3. How does the selection process work?
Children are chosen through a lottery system with priority given to: families experiencing homelessness, 4-year-olds over 3-year-olds, children who live in the same school zone as the preschool, and children with siblings already in the program.

4. What if my child has special needs?
All children are welcome! The program works with Seattle Public Schools to provide services for children with disabilities. If your child has an IEP (Individualized Education Program), contact your case manager or call Seattle Public Schools Early Learning at (206) 252-0600.

5. Can I choose any preschool location?
You can select up to 5 locations on your application, but you cannot rank them in order of preference. Make sure all locations you choose work for your family's schedule and transportation needs.

Who do I contact about my application status?

For Seattle Preschool Program Applications:
Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL)

Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 1700, Seattle, WA 98104
Mailing Address: PO Box 94665, Seattle, WA 98124-6965

Phone: (206) 386-1050
Email: preschool@seattle.gov

Language assistance is available in multiple languages

For Tuition Questions and Payments:
Email: sppbilling@seattle.gov
Phone: (206) 684-5660
Online Payment: Pay Your Bill Online

For Children with Special Needs (IEP Questions):
Seattle Public Schools Early Learning Department
Phone: (206) 252-0600
Email: earlylearning@seattleschools.org
Child Find Services: (206) 252-0805 or childfind@seattleschools.org

Additional Resources:

Apply Online Today: seattle.gov/applySPP