Verified state guidance

Oregon Preschool & TK

In Oregon, children must turn 5 on or before September 1 to enter kindergarten. Oregon has no transitional kindergarten ("young fives") program; its public early-learning option for younger children is state-funded pre-K. The state funds Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten (OPK) and Preschool Promise, a pre-K program for income-eligible three- and four-year-olds. Head Start is available statewide for income-eligible families.

Key early-childhood facts for Oregon

Kindergarten entrance cutoff: Children must turn 5 on or before September 1 to start kindergarten.
Free pre-K options: Free state-funded pre-K is available to income-eligible three- and four-year-olds through Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten (OPK) and Preschool Promise.
Notes: Oregon has no transitional kindergarten program. Its public early-learning pathway before kindergarten is state-funded pre-K (Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten (OPK) and Preschool Promise) 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.oregon.gov/delc/programs/pages/preschool-promise.aspx

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