Education · California

Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK)

Worth ~$1,000/month

Worth up to ~$1,000/month

Check your eligibility in California — free
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About Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK)

Free public school for 4-year-olds — a full year of kindergarten prep with trained teachers, no income requirement.

How to Apply in California

  1. Contact your local school district to find TK programs near you
  2. Enroll your child if they turn 4 by September 1 of the school year
  3. Registration is free — no income verification needed
  4. Extended day programs may also be available at no cost

Contact & Official Links

See Everything You Qualify For in California

Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK) is one of many programs you may be eligible for. Beneify screens your household against the full program list — free, private, about 3 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK) worth?
Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK): Worth ~$1,000/month. Eligible households may receive a benefit worth up to ~$1,000 per month.
How do I apply for Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK) in California?
To apply: Contact your local school district to find TK programs near you. Enroll your child if they turn 4 by September 1 of the school year. Registration is free — no income verification needed. Official website: https://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/gs/em/kinderfaq.asp
Who qualifies for Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK)?
Free public school for 4-year-olds — a full year of kindergarten prep with trained teachers, no income requirement. Final eligibility is determined by the program when you apply. Beneify's free screener can estimate your eligibility in about 3 minutes.