The Chicago Early Learning online preschool application opens on 4/30/18 @ 8:30am! Follow these easy steps to get your child enrolled in preschool:
Step 1) Visit ChicagoEarlyLearning.org to create an online account for your family
Step 2) Fill in information on your family, such as employment and income, information on your child, and then apply for your top choice preschool site
Step 3) If your child qualifies (you may find out immediately), you will receive an email on June 1st with information on how to verify your child’s preschool seat
If you have questions, please visit ChicagoEarlyLearning.org, or call the Chicago Early Learning Hotline: (312) 229-1690.
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It appears that these applications are “first come, first serve” so apply early for any particular site you would like. See the forum thread for more info.
These programs were formerly known as “Ready to Learn” or “Preschool for All”. This site does not cover magnet preschools or Tuition Based PK. Please review the FAQs for more detailed information.
Enrollment Process
Search Locations
Find and compare Chicago Early Learning programs to find the right one for your child. Get Started!
Apply to Program
Narrow it down to your top two picks. Create an online account, fill out family information, and a child application to preschool sites. If your child qualifies for an offer, you will follow next steps verify their placement. If your child remains on a waitlist, stay tuned for more information from the Chicago Early Learning team.
For CPS Site Offers: Verify placement through a Family Resource Center
Within two weeks of receiving your offer, bring proof of your family’s income, address, and your child’s birth to one of 12 Family Resource Center sites across the city. Click here for more information about Family Resource Centers. See below for more details about what documents you will provide.
OR
For Community-Based Site Offers: Verify placement through your community-program location
Within two weeks of receiving your offer, bring proof of your family’s income, address, and your child’s birth to your assigned community-based program location. See below for more details about what documents you will provide.
Enrollment at CPS-Program Location
Visit your child’s preschool to complete the enrollment process. The school may have more specific enrollment directions that they will communicate.
OR
Enrollment at Community-Program Location
When you visit your child’s community-based site to verify your child’s offer, your site will communicate any additional expectations they have to complete the enrollment process.
Go to School!
If you have questions, please call our Chicago Early Learning Hotline: (312) 229-1690 or visit a Family Resource Center near you.
Hello,
I am looking for information on how to become a Chicago Early Learning Program. What is the application process for my preschool to join?
Thank you for your help!
Susan
The best bet is to call the Chicago Early Learning hotline (312) 229-1690 and ask them to direct you to the right place. There is very little on their website. Good luck!