The pre-K rules copy the eligibility list for free public pre-K. Applicants who didn't fit any category were the biggest group ruled ineligible in year one, so check the list before you spend time on the application.
Two categories matter a lot in Dallas. Many families in Dallas ISD, Garland ISD and Irving ISD qualify through free or reduced-price lunch or limited English, and a child whose parent teaches in any Texas public school qualifies regardless of income.
A provider has to be licensed child care in good standing and hold one quality credential: Texas Rising Star at 3 stars or above, Texas School Ready, a pre-K partnership with a school district, or recognized accreditation. Our pre-K page lists every approved provider the state finder shows in our six counties, and kindergarten at the same school is open to any eligible child.
All 292 TEFA pre-K providers in the area
Combining it with other sources
Few Dallas families pay with one source alone. This one generally stacks with a school's own discounts and need-based aid and with at least one other source on our funding list, and the funding check lays out the combination that fits your child.