HomeChild CarePennsylvaniaPHL Pre-K
How to Apply: PHL Pre-K
Pennsylvania · 5 StepsPhiladelphia children who are 3 or 4 by September 1 — no income or job rules
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 5: See if this is for you
- Child is 3 or 4 by September 1
- Live in Philadelphia
- Free for everyone
Good to know: There are no income or employment requirements — every Philly family can apply.Step 2 of 5: Get papers ready
- Proof of age: birth certificate
- Proof of address: bill or lease
- Your photo ID
Good to know: Shot records and medical papers are optional — helpful but not required to apply.Step 3 of 5: Apply
Enrollment usually opens in January
- Apply online (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Call 1-844-745-7735
- Visit a pre-K provider in person
Good to know: One application lets you apply to multiple programs. The site is mobile-friendly and multilingual.Step 4 of 5: Get your answer
- Decision comes quickly
- Waitlist if no space yet
Step 5 of 5: Start pre-K
- Free 5.5-hour school day
- Play-based learning
- 180+ locations
Important: Extended care and summer programs cost extra.Good to know: Welcome to PHLpreK — your little one is ready to learn through play!
a "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for PHL Pre-K.
What is PHLpreK?
PHLpreK is the City of Philadelphia’s free, high-quality pre-kindergarten program for children aged 3 and 4. It offers early childhood education at over 180 participating locations across the city. The program emphasizes a play-based curriculum, social-emotional development, and school readiness. There are no income or employment requirements—eligibility is based solely on the child’s age and residency.
How do I apply for PHLpreK?
You can apply for PHLpreK through the following methods:
Online: Submit an application via the FreePhillyPreK portal. The online application is mobile-friendly, available in multiple languages, and allows you to apply to multiple programs with a single submission.
Phone Assistance: Call 1-844-PHL-PREK (1-844-745-7735) for help with the application process or to find a participating provider near you.
In-Person: Contact a participating PHLpreK provider directly to complete the application process.
How long does it take to receive services from PHLpreK?
Enrollment decisions are typically made promptly after a complete application and all required documents are submitted. If space is available, your child can begin attending shortly after acceptance. If no immediate space is available, your child may be placed on a waitlist, and you will be notified when a spot opens up.
What do the application steps look like?
Ensure your child is 3 or 4 years old by September 1 and resides in Philadelphia.
Collect necessary documentation (see next section).
Apply online at FreePhillyPreK or contact a participating provider directly.
The selected provider will review your application and contact you regarding next steps.
Upon acceptance, complete any additional enrollment forms required by the provider.
Your child begins attending the PHLpreK program as scheduled.
What documentation is required when I fill out my application?
Proof of Child’s Age (provide only 1 of the following):
Birth certificate
Valid U.S. passport
Social Security card
Medical or school records
Proof of Residency (provide only 1 of the following):
Utility bill
Lease agreement
Mortgage statement
Medical insurance forms
SSI forms
Caregiver Identification:
Government-issued photo ID
Additional Documents (may be requested by specific providers):
Child’s immunization records
Recent physical and dental reports
Medical insurance card
Common FAQs
Is PHLpreK truly free?
Yes, the program is free for eligible families. However, if you require care beyond the standard 5.5-hour school day or during the summer, additional fees may apply.
Are there income requirements to qualify?
No, there are no income or employment requirements for PHLpreK eligibility.
Can I apply to multiple PHLpreK programs?
Yes, the online application allows you to apply to multiple programs with a single submission.
What if I need assistance with the application?
You can call 1-844-PHL-PREK (1-844-745-7735) for help or visit PHLpreK.org for resources and FAQs.
When does enrollment open for the upcoming school year?
Enrollment typically opens in January before the school year.
Who do I contact about my application status?
PHLpreK Enrollment Support
Phone: 1-844-PHL-PREK (1-844-745-7735)
Website: www.phlprek.org
Address: 1515 Arch Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19102
For assistance with your application or to check your status, contact the provider you applied to directly or call the PHLpreK support line.
If you have any questions or would like to speak to a Mirza Applications Specialist, please email support@heymirza.com.
Last updated June 5, 2025