Verified state guidance
Montana Preschool & TK
In Montana, children must turn 5 on or before September 10 to enter kindergarten. Montana has no transitional kindergarten ("young fives") program and no state-funded pre-K program. Families instead rely on private preschools and child care assistance. Head Start is available statewide for income-eligible families.
Key early-childhood facts for Montana
- Kindergarten entrance cutoff
- Children must turn 5 on or before September 10 to start kindergarten.
- Free pre-K options
- No state-funded pre-K program. Head Start (federally funded) and child care assistance serve eligible families.
- Notes
- Montana has no transitional kindergarten program and no state-funded pre-K. Head Start and child care assistance are the main public early-learning options for younger children.
Head Start and early learning resources
Find local Head Start and state pre-K programs: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator
Last updated 6/21/2026. Always confirm current rules with your state education department or local school district.