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Clear, independent answers to the questions parents actually ask about preschool and transitional kindergarten — grounded in your state's real rules.

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© 2026 PreschoolWise. Educational guidance, not legal or enrollment advice — always confirm with your school district.

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Verified state guidance

Vermont Preschool & TK

In Vermont, children must turn 5 on or before January 1 to enter kindergarten. Vermont has no transitional kindergarten ("young fives") program; its public early-learning option for younger children is state-funded pre-K. The state funds Vermont Universal Prekindergarten Education (Act 166), a free pre-K program open to all three- and four-year-olds regardless of family income. Head Start is available statewide for income-eligible families.

The cutoff at a glance

A child must turn 5 on or before January 1 to start kindergarten

January 1
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Turns 5 by January 1

Starts kindergarten this school year.

Turns 5 after January 1

Waits until the next school year — a good fit for TK or pre-K.

Key early-childhood facts for Vermont

Kindergarten entrance cutoff
Children must turn 5 on or before January 1 to start kindergarten.
Free pre-K options
Free state-funded pre-K is available to all three- and four-year-olds through Vermont Universal Prekindergarten Education (Act 166).
Notes
Vermont has no transitional kindergarten program. Its public early-learning pathway before kindergarten is state-funded pre-K (Vermont Universal Prekindergarten Education (Act 166)) 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://education.vermont.gov/student-support/early-education/universal-prekindergarten-act-166

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

Helpful guides for parents

What age does preschool start?Typical ages, readiness signs, and state cutoffs.Is my child ready for preschool?The readiness signs to look for.Preschool vs. daycareHow they differ and which fits your child.Preschool vs. pre-KWhat comes when, from ages 3 to 5.