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Universal Preschool Program

a "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for Colorado UPK.

What is Universal Preschool Colorado (UPK Colorado)?

Universal Preschool Colorado (UPK Colorado) offers free, voluntary preschool to children in Colorado the year before they enter kindergarten.

The program provides a minimum of 15 hours of preschool per week at no cost to families, with additional hours of care available for children who meet qualifying factors such as being in foster care, experiencing homelessness, or having special needs.

UPK Colorado is overseen by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and aims to give all children equitable access to high-quality early learning.

How do I apply for Universal Preschool Colorado?

You can apply for UPK Colorado through the following ways:

  • Online Portal: Submit an application through the Universal Preschool Colorado Application Portal.

  • Through Your Local Coordinating Organization (LCO): Many communities have LCOs that can assist families with applications. Find your LCO on the UPK Colorado website.

How long does it take to match with a UPK program?

The application review and matching process typically occurs within a few weeks after submitting an application, with most placements confirmed before the start of the school year.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Go to upk.colorado.gov.

  2. Register for a new user account on the online portal.

  3. Enter child and household details, select preferred providers, and indicate if your child qualifies for additional hours.

  4. Finalize and submit the online form.

  5. You’ll receive a confirmation email and be contacted by your Local Coordinating Organization regarding your child's preschool placement.

  6. Review and accept your assigned preschool placement.

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

  • Proof of Child’s Age (provide 1 of the following):

    • Birth certificate

    • Passport

    • Official hospital record

  • Proof of Residency (provide 1 of the following):

    • Utility bill

    • Lease or rental agreement

    • Driver’s license with current address

  • Qualifying Factor Documentation (if applicable):

    • Foster care verification

    • Homelessness verification letter

    • Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for children with special needs

Note: Specific documents are uploaded through the application portal or provided to your LCO.

Common FAQs

  1. Who is eligible for UPK Colorado?

    • Any child in Colorado who turns 4 by October 1 of the school year before kindergarten.

  2. Is UPK Colorado free?

    • Yes, it provides at least 15 hours of preschool per week at no cost to families.

  3. Can I choose my child’s preschool provider?

    • Yes, families can select from a list of licensed participating providers during the application process.

  4. Is there a deadline to apply?

    • While applications are accepted until spots are filled, families are encouraged to apply early in the spring for fall enrollment.

  5. Can 3-year-olds participate?

    • Yes, but only if they meet qualifying factors such as having an IEP, being in foster care, or experiencing homelessness.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Or, contact your Local Coordinating Organization (LCO) for updates on your specific application and placement.

If you have any questions or would like to speak to a Mirza Applications Specialist, please email support@heymirza.com.