HomeChild CareSouth CarolinaPublic School 4-K
How to Apply: Public School 4-K
South Carolina · 6 StepsSouth Carolina children who turn 4 by September 1
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 6: See if this is for you
- Your child is 4 by September 1
- You live in South Carolina
Important: Some districts offer 3K only for children with special needs.Step 2 of 6: Find a program
- Search by ZIP on Palmetto Pre-K (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Pick First Steps 4K or district pre-K
Step 3 of 6: Get your papers ready
- Birth certificate
- ID, lease, or utility bill
- Income info if asked
Step 4 of 6: Apply online
- First Steps 4K application (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Use the provider's portal
- Upload your papers
Good to know: Applying early is best.Step 5 of 6: Wait for an offer
- Provider calls if they have space
- Full? Ask for the waiting list
Important: If programs are full, call the provider or the Palmetto portal to get on a waiting list.Step 6 of 6: Start school in fall
- Classes start in August
- Learning through play
Good to know: 4K is free - your child is on their way to kindergarten!Important: Extra child care before or after school may cost money.
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for Public School 4-K.
What is South Carolina Pre‑Kindergarten (4K)?
Pre-Kindergarten (also called 4K) in South Carolina is a free educational program for 4-year-olds. It prepares children for school with early learning in reading, math, and social skills. The program includes state-funded options through local school districts, First Steps 4K in private centers, and other early education sites. You can look up available programs by ZIP code — all in one spot.
How do I apply for Pre‑K?
Use Palmetto Pre-K, a statewide portal to find and apply for free preschool programs across SC: Visit Palmetto Pre-K portal
You can also check and apply through First Steps 4K: Apply via First Steps 4K
How long will it take until my child starts?
After applying, your local 4K provider will contact you if they have space. Application start times vary, so applying early is best. Programs usually align with the school year, starting in August.
What do the application steps look like?
Search for a 4K program by ZIP code on Palmetto Pre-K.
Choose a program, such as First Steps 4K or district-pre-K.
Apply online through the provider's system or the portal.
Upload required documents (see below).
Wait for an offer from the provider.
Complete enrollment and attend classes in the fall.
What documentation is required?
Child’s Age
Proof that your child is 4 by September 1 (e.g., birth certificate)
Proof of Residency
Documents like an ID, lease, or utility bill showing your SC address
(Sometimes) Income Validation
Some districts or centers may ask for income info for state reporting
Check the Palmetto Pre-K or First Steps site for specific document needs.
Common FAQs
1. Who is eligible?Children who are 4 by September 1 and live in South Carolina. dss.sc.gov+7dashboardsc.sc.gov+7earlychildhoodsc.org+7
2. Where is 4K offered?Programs are available at school districts, First Steps 4K centers, Head Start, and licensed providers. Search portals by location. childcare.gov+3sc.gov+3earlychildhoodsc.org+3
3. Is there a cost?No — 4K is free. Extra child care before or after may cost money.
4. Can 3-year-olds apply?Some districts offer 3K only for children with special needs; check with your local district.
5. What if programs are full?Call the provider or the Palmetto portal to get on a waiting list.
Who do I contact for help?
Palmetto Pre-K Customer Support
Website help via the portal
First Steps 4K Enrollment
Phone: 1‑877‑621‑0865 (Option 1)
Email: free4Ksc@scfirststeps.org
Local School District Pre‑K Office
Contact details on your school district’s website
Last updated July 1, 2025