About the Program

On My Way Pre-K is Indiana’s state-funded program that provides free, high-quality Pre-K to 4-year-old children from income-eligible families. It helps prepare children for kindergarten by supporting their early learning in approved public schools, private centers, ministries, and licensed homes.

To qualify for the 2026–2027 school year, children must:

• Be 4 years old by August 1, 2026 and plan to start kindergarten in the 2027–2028 school year
• Live in a household with income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
• Have a parent or guardian who is working, in school, or attending job training

If funding allows, a limited number of vouchers may also be available to families earning up to 185% of the FPL, if the parent or guardian meets the same work/training criteria or receives SSDI or SSI benefits.

Important Program Updates for 2026-2027

The On My Way Pre-K program has several updates this year based on new legislation and funding decisions:

• Enrollment cap: Enrollment is capped at 2,500 total children, with a portion reserved for families meeting limited eligibility criteria.
• Voucher coverage: Only the Pre-K child will be eligible for an OMWPK voucher—siblings must apply separately through CCDF or other programs.
• Start date: Vouchers will begin when the Pre-K program starts (late July or early August), and wraparound care can be covered through CCDF.
• Eligibility threshold: Family income eligibility is now set at 135% of the federal poverty level.
• Job Search: To qualify, a parent or guardian must be working, in school, or attending job training.
• Voucher coverage: The maximum voucher amount is capped at $6,800 per year, with a provider reimbursement rate of $147.82/week.

These updates help ensure the program remains high-quality, sustainable, and accessible to those who need it most.