Return to Articles

7.01.2026

A New, Easier Way to Apply for Free Pre-K in Nevada

Great news for Nevada families! If your child will be age 4 by August 1, 2026, a brand-new tool is here to make it easier than ever to find and apply for high-quality Pre-K programs across the state.

Beginning this summer, families can use the Nevada Ready! Pre-K Common Application—a simple, streamlined online system designed to help you explore your options and apply for multiple programs all in one place.

What Is the Nevada Ready! Pre-K Common Application?

The Nevada Ready! Pre-K Common Application is a new, statewide system available through First5Nevada.org that allows families to:

• Complete one easy application
• Search for programs near your home, work, or preferred location
• Apply to multiple Pre-K programs at the same time
• Compare options across different types of providers

Programs available through the application may include (options vary based on your location):

• Public schools
• Charter schools
• Licensed child care centers
• Community-based organizations

Instead of navigating multiple applications and deadlines, families now have a single, convenient entry point to get started.

More Families Now Qualify for Free Pre-K

Exciting updates to eligibility mean that more Nevada families can now qualify for NO-COST Pre-K through the Nevada Ready! program.

Your child may be eligible if they:

• Will be 4 years old by August 1, 2026, and
• Meet at least one qualifying factor, such as income guidelines or other eligibility criteria – click here to learn more about all of the current eligibility criteria

Nevada Ready! Pre-K programs are designed to support children’s kindergarten readiness, social-emotional growth, and early learning success.

What Families Should Know

While the Common Application makes applying easier, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Submitting an application is not the same as enrollment. Families must still complete final steps directly with the program they choose, including providing required documentation such as birth certificates, immunization records, proof of address and proof of income.
• Some programs, especially charter schools, may require a lottery process for admission. If you select a charter school, you will be provided with the link to that school’s lottery system. Please keep in mind that many charter schools have already completed the lottery process for the 2026-2027 school year, however you may still complete the application to be added to their waitlist.
• Transportation is not provided for Pre-K programs. By enrolling in a Pre-K program, you are committing to providing transportation to and from school for your child.
• Your information will only be shared with the programs you select, ensuring your privacy and security.

Not All Programs Participate (Yet)

It’s important for families to know that not all Nevada Ready! Pre-K providers are currently participating in the Common Application system.

This means:

• Some Pre-K programs may still require you to apply directly through their individual enrollment process
• If you select a program that is not currently participating, you will receive information on how to apply or to get additional information.

Need Help? Support Is Available

First 5 Nevada’s Community Navigators are here to help! They can assist with:

• Completing the application
• Understanding eligibility requirements
• Exploring available Pre-K options in your community

Email us at [email protected] to get connected with a Community Navigator.

The application is also available in English and Spanish, with more languages coming soon.

Get Started Today

Applying is quick and simple—and it opens the door to high-quality early learning opportunities that can make a lifelong difference for your child.

Click here to learn more and access the application.

Give your child a strong start—apply for Nevada Ready! Pre-K today!