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.

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.