HomeChild CareArizonaPima Early Education Program (PEEP)
How to Apply: Pima Early Education Program (PEEP)
Arizona · 6 StepsPima County families with children ages 3 to 5 who meet income guidelines
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 6: See if this fits you
- You live in Pima County
- Child is 3 to 5 years old
- Your income fits the guidelines
Good to know: Families going through hard money times get priority.Step 2 of 6: Find a PEEP preschool
- See the provider list online (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Ask if scholarships are open
- Call for help (520) 724-7650
Step 3 of 6: Get your papers ready
- Child's birth certificate or passport
- Utility bill, lease, or ID with address
- Pay stubs, tax return, or benefit papers
- Child's shot records
Step 4 of 6: Apply with the preschool
- Fill out the PEEP application
- Give them your papers
Don't miss: There is no central mail, fax, or email option. You apply through the preschool.Good to know: Applications are accepted all year, based on availability.Step 5 of 6: Wait for your answer
- Usually 2 to 3 weeks
- The preschool tells you the decision
Step 6 of 6: Start preschool
- Scholarship covers full or part of tuition
- Your child gets ready for kindergarten
Important: Transportation is not included.Good to know: Way to go! Your child is set up for kindergarten success.
a "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the PEEP scholarship program.
What is Pima Early Education Program (PEEP) Scholarship?
The Pima Early Education Program (PEEP) Scholarship provides tuition assistance for high-quality preschool programs to eligible families in Pima County, Arizona. Funded by Pima County, the scholarship aims to increase access to early learning for children ages 3 to 5, preparing them for kindergarten success.
Scholarships are awarded based on family income, with priority given to families experiencing economic hardship.
How do I apply for Pima Early Education Program (PEEP) Scholarship?
Online: Visit pima.gov/PEEP to access the application form (typically hosted by partnering providers).
Through Participating Providers: Applications are submitted directly through participating preschool and child care providers.
In-Person: Contact one of the participating programs listed on the Pima County PEEP website for application details.
Note: There’s no central fax, email, or mail option — applications are handled via the child care providers.
How long does it take to receive funds from PEEP?
Once an application is submitted to a participating provider and eligibility is verified, families typically receive enrollment and scholarship award decisions within 2–3 weeks.
Tuition assistance is applied directly to the provider, reducing the family’s tuition payments.
What do the application steps look like?
Find a Participating Provider: Review the list of approved preschools and child care centers offering PEEP Scholarships on the Pima County website.
Contact the Provider: Inquire about scholarship availability and application process.
Complete the Application: Fill out the PEEP Scholarship application provided by the child care provider.
Submit Required Documentation: Provide income verification, residency proof, and child age documentation.
Eligibility Review and Award Notification: The provider reviews materials and notifies families of award status.
Start Preschool Program: If awarded, the child can begin attending, with tuition assistance applied to the account.
What documentation is required when I fill out my application?
Proof of Child’s Age (provide 1 of the following):
Birth certificate
Passport
Proof of Pima County Residency (provide 1 of the following):
Utility bill
Lease agreement
Government-issued ID with address
Proof of Income (provide 1 of the following):
Recent pay stubs
Tax return
Public benefits statements (if applicable)
Additional Documentation:
Child immunization records
Common FAQs
Who qualifies for a PEEP Scholarship?
Families living in Pima County with children ages 3–5 who meet income eligibility guidelines.
Can I apply mid-year?
Yes, applications are accepted year-round based on availability.
Where can I use the scholarship?
At approved, high-quality preschool and child care centers participating in the program.
Does the scholarship cover full tuition?
Amounts vary — it may cover full or partial tuition based on family income and provider rates.
Is transportation provided?
Transportation services are not included with the scholarship.
Who do I contact about my application status?
Pima County Community & Workforce Development
Phone: (520) 724-7650
Email: CWD@pima.gov
Website: pima.gov/PEEP
Note: For specific application status updates, contact the participating child care provider where you applied.
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