About NC Pre-K (Smart Start)
Free high-quality preschool for eligible 4-year-olds. Funded through Smart Start and the NC Pre-K program, serving children from low-income families (up to 75% SMI). Full-day, full-year program in licensed child care centers and public schools across all 100 NC counties.
How to Apply in North Carolina
- Contact your local Smart Start partnership or county DSS
- Or visit ncprek.nc.gov to find a program near you
- Child must turn 4 by August 31 of the program year
- Priority given to families at or below 75% of state median income
- Apply by spring for the following school year — spaces fill quickly
Documents You May Need
- Child's birth certificate
- Proof of income
- Proof of NC residency
- Immunization records
Contact & Official Links
Phone: 1-800-662-7030
See Everything You Qualify For in North Carolina
NC Pre-K (Smart Start) is one of many programs you may be eligible for. Beneify screens your household against the full program list — free, private, about 3 minutes.
Start Free Screening ›Frequently Asked Questions
How much is NC Pre-K (Smart Start) worth?
NC Pre-K (Smart Start): Worth ~$700/month in preschool tuition. Eligible households may receive a benefit worth up to ~$700 per month.
NC Pre-K (Smart Start): Worth ~$700/month in preschool tuition. Eligible households may receive a benefit worth up to ~$700 per month.
How do I apply for NC Pre-K (Smart Start) in North Carolina?
To apply: Contact your local Smart Start partnership or county DSS. Or visit ncprek.nc.gov to find a program near you. Child must turn 4 by August 31 of the program year. You can also call 1-800-662-7030. Official website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K
To apply: Contact your local Smart Start partnership or county DSS. Or visit ncprek.nc.gov to find a program near you. Child must turn 4 by August 31 of the program year. You can also call 1-800-662-7030. Official website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K
Who qualifies for NC Pre-K (Smart Start)?
Free high-quality preschool for eligible 4-year-olds. Funded through Smart Start and the NC Pre-K program, serving children from low-income families (up to 75% SMI). Final eligibility is determined by the program when you apply. Beneify's free screener can estimate your eligibility in about 3 minutes.
Free high-quality preschool for eligible 4-year-olds. Funded through Smart Start and the NC Pre-K program, serving children from low-income families (up to 75% SMI). Final eligibility is determined by the program when you apply. Beneify's free screener can estimate your eligibility in about 3 minutes.