HomeChild CareOhioCuyahoga County UPK Safety Net Scholarship
How to Apply: Cuyahoga County UPK Safety Net Scholarship
Ohio · 5 StepsCuyahoga County families with income at or below 300% of the poverty level and a child age 3 to 5
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 5: See if you qualify
- Child is 3 to 5
- Live in Cuyahoga County
- Income at or below 300% poverty level
Step 2 of 5: Find an eligible preschool
- Or visit their website (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- 3-star or higher rated programs only
- Call Starting Point 216-575-0061
Important: Only preschools rated 3 stars or higher on Step Up To Quality count.Step 3 of 5: Get your papers ready
- Pay stubs, tax return, or benefit letters
- Lease, utility bill, or official mail
- Birth certificate or passport
Step 4 of 5: Apply
- Fill out the UPK form online
- Or apply through Starting Point
Good to know: Apply early for a faster approval and start.Step 5 of 5: Start preschool
- Start date depends on open spots
- Scholarship covers full tuition
Important: If your income changes, tell Starting Point to keep your scholarship up to date.Good to know: Full tuition covered - your little one is on the way to preschool!
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Cuyahoga County UPK Safety Net Scholarship.
What is the UPK Safety Net Scholarship?
The UPK Safety Net Scholarship helps families in Cuyahoga County afford high-quality preschool for 3- to 5-year-olds. It is for families with income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. This scholarship pays for care at Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) rated preschool programs, so cost isn’t a barrier to your child’s early learning.
How do I apply for the Safety Net Scholarship?
Fill out the UPK application form online or through Starting Point.
Provide all required documents (see below).
Contact Starting Point for help finding eligible Step Up To Quality providers and scholarship information.
Starting Point Contact:Phone: (216) 575-0061Website: https://www.starting-point.org
How long does it take to receive services?
Time to start depends on availability at your chosen UPK provider.
Apply early to get a spot and scholarship approval as soon as possible.
What documentation is required?
Proof of Income
Recent pay stubs
Tax returns
Award letters for benefits (SNAP, unemployment, etc.)
Proof of Residency
Lease agreement
Utility bill
Other official mail showing your address
Child’s Age Verification
Birth certificate
Passport
Other official document with date of birth
Common FAQs
1. Who qualifies for the Safety Net Scholarship?Families with income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level living in Cuyahoga County.
2. Does the scholarship cover full tuition?Yes, the scholarship helps pay tuition at participating Step Up To Quality-rated preschools.
3. Can I choose any preschool?You must select a preschool rated 3 stars or higher by Ohio’s Step Up To Quality program.
4. What if my income changes?Report any income changes to Starting Point to update your scholarship status.
5. How can I get help with the application?Starting Point staff are available by phone or online to assist you.
Who do I contact about my application?
Starting Point
Phone: (216) 575-0061
Website: https://www.starting-point.org
They can help with questions, status updates, and finding providers.
Last updated July 1, 2025