Verified state guidance

North Dakota Preschool & TK

In North Dakota, children must turn 5 before August 1 to enter kindergarten. North Dakota has no transitional kindergarten ("young fives") program; its public early-learning option for younger children is state-funded pre-K. The state funds North Dakota Best in Class, a pre-K program for four-year-olds who meet at-risk or other eligibility criteria. Head Start is available statewide for income-eligible families.

Key early-childhood facts for North Dakota

Kindergarten entrance cutoff: Children must turn 5 before August 1 to start kindergarten.
Free pre-K options: Free state-funded pre-K is available to eligible four-year-olds through North Dakota Best in Class.
Notes: North Dakota has no transitional kindergarten program. Its public early-learning pathway before kindergarten is state-funded pre-K (North Dakota Best in Class) plus Head Start.

Head Start and early learning resources

Find local Head Start and state pre-K programs: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator

State early education website

https://www.hhs.nd.gov/cfs/early-childhood-services/best-in-class

Last updated 6/21/2026. Always confirm current rules with your state education department or local school district.