Last verified: October 2026
Is there free or discounted preschool in Cleveland?
Yes, at participating programs. Cuyahoga County's Universal Pre-K gives 50% tuition scholarships to families up to 400% of poverty, and the Ohio Preschool Program serves families at or below 200%. City families can also use PRE4CLE to find rated programs.
What if we live in Lake, Lorain, Geauga or Medina County?
UPK is a Cuyahoga program, so look first at the Ohio Preschool Program and at child care subsidies through your county Job and Family Services office. A child with an IEP can use the Jon Peterson Scholarship from age 3 anywhere in Ohio.
Which programs in the directory end at pre-K or kindergarten?
10 programs in the directory top out at pre-K or kindergarten, from franchise early-learning centers to parish preschools. Ask each whether it takes UPK, OPP or publicly funded child care.
| Program | Income line |
|---|---|
| Cuyahoga UPK scholarship | Up to 400% of poverty |
| Ohio Preschool Program | Up to 200% |
| Publicly Funded Child Care | Below 145% at entry |
| Child Care Choice Voucher | 145%-200% |
What should we do next?
Take the two-minute funding check. A tuition counselor will confirm which voucher your address unlocks, what else your child qualifies for and which dates apply.