Feb. 2 Deadline for Universal Preschool Applications

Larimer and Weld County families have until February 2 to apply for Universal Preschool for the 2026-27 school year. Early applicants have better odds of securing preferred schools and schedules amid statewide demand—as of January 26, 23,431 families had already applied for four-year-old spots.

The program offers up to 30 hours per week of free preschool through state-licensed school districts, charter schools, child care centers, and community-based providers. More than 2,000 providers participate statewide. The application takes less than five minutes to complete through UPK.Colorado.gov.

Governor Jared Polis called the deadline critical: "I encourage families to apply by February 2 so they can take advantage of the opportunities free preschool provides and maximize their chance of getting their first choice."

Early applicants in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Windsor, and surrounding communities benefit from more available slots at preferred schools and schedules. The program historically matches 90% of families with their first or second choice—second-round applicants have fewer slots to choose from.

First-round matches are announced February 25; families must accept or decline by March 6. Second-round applications close March 15, with matches announced March 24 and decisions due March 31. Families who miss Rounds 1 and 2 can enroll directly in remaining seats starting April 1. Families can apply in all rounds.

Dr. Lisa Roy, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Early Childhood, emphasized the program's accessibility: "Universal Preschool is designed to be simple, accessible, and responsive to families across Colorado. The application takes less than five minutes to complete, and applying by the February 2 deadline helps ensure families can access the full range of preschool options available in their communities."

Statewide demand has remained strong: the program enrolled 44,387 four-year-olds in 2025-26, up from 43,479 in 2023-24.

Families can search local providers and apply at UPK.Colorado.gov.