January 22, 2025
When Should You Start Applying to Preschools? A Timeline for Parents
Discover the perfect preschool application timeline with this step-by-step guide. Learn when to apply for preschool, city-specific deadlines, and tips for late or last-minute applications. Stay organized and secure the best preschool for your child!

When Should You Start Applying to Preschools? A Timeline for Parents

Preschool applications require careful planning and timing. This guide outlines application deadlines, requirements, and strategies for securing enrollment at your preferred schools. Following a structured timeline increases your chances of acceptance into the right program for your child. Understanding a clear preschool application timeline ensures that you are ahead of critical deadlines.

Standard Application Timeline

Most preschools begin accepting applications well before the academic year starts. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

12–18 Months Before Enrollment

Primary tasks for this period:

  • Research local preschool programs
  • Visit school open houses
  • Gather parent recommendations
  • List program requirements
  • Compare teaching philosophies
  • Note application deadlines
  • Schedule facility tours
  • Create a school shortlist (if you need a guide on how to compare preschools, we've got you covered)

9–12 Months Before Enrollment

Complete these steps:

  • Submit program applications
  • Fill out enrollment forms
  • Provide family information
  • Write required statements
  • Send application fees
  • Request information packets
  • Document submission dates
  • Track application status

6–9 Months Before Enrollment

Focus on these requirements:

  • Schedule child observations
  • Book parent interviews
  • Submit developmental reports
  • Arrange teacher recommendations
  • Plan evaluation visits
  • Track school communications
  • Prepare required documents
  • Note assessment dates

3–6 Months Before Enrollment

Handle these tasks:

  • Review admission decisions
  • Submit enrollment deposits
  • Complete registration forms
  • Sign program contracts
  • Provide medical records
  • Schedule orientations
  • Plan payment schedules
  • Confirm start dates

1–3 Months Before Enrollment

Final preparation steps:

  • Establish daily routines
  • Attend school orientations
  • Submit health records
  • Update contact information
  • Meet teaching staff
  • Tour classrooms
  • Review program schedules
  • Prepare supplies

Regional Application Deadlines

Different cities follow distinct timelines. Here's what parents need to know:

Los Angeles Preschool Timeline

Standard Schedule:

  • Applications for Los Angeles preschools open: September–October
  • Submission deadline: January–February
  • Private school deadlines: December
  • Decision notifications: March
  • Enrollment confirmation: April
  • Deposit deadlines: April–May
  • Orientation dates: August

San Francisco Preschool Timeline

Program Dates:

  • Application start: September
  • Submission cutoff: November–December
  • School tours: October–January
  • Family meetings: December
  • Decision letters: February
  • Registration deadline: March
  • Program start: August–September

San Diego Preschool Timeline

Flexible Schedule:

  • Rolling admissions available
  • Standard deadlines: January–March
  • Tour dates: Year-round
  • Interview periods: Monthly
  • Registration windows: Ongoing
  • Start dates: Multiple options
  • Waitlist updates: Regular

Application Requirements Timeline

Breaking down application components helps parents stay organized:

Research Phase (12–18 Months)

Documentation needed:

  • School location details
  • Program descriptions
  • Teaching philosophies
  • Staff credentials
  • Facility information
  • Tuition rates
  • Schedule options
  • Enrollment capacity

Submission Period (9–12 Months)

Required materials:

  • Application forms
  • Family information
  • Child background
  • Parent statements
  • Financial documents
  • Reference contacts
  • Program preferences
  • Fee payments

Supplemental Materials (6–9 Months)

Additional documents:

  • Child assessments
  • Development reports
  • Teacher recommendations
  • Medical records
  • Proof of residence
  • Birth certificate
  • Emergency contacts
  • Family photos

Admission Types

Preschools offer different enrollment options:

Early Decision Programs

Characteristics:

  • Earlier deadlines
  • Fall applications
  • Winter decisions
  • Binding agreements
  • Limited spots
  • Quick responses
  • Fixed start dates
  • Full-year commitment

Rolling Admissions

Features:

  • Flexible deadlines
  • Ongoing reviews
  • Space-based acceptance
  • Multiple start dates
  • Variable schedules
  • Quick processing
  • Year-round options
  • Program flexibility

Late Application Strategies

Missing standard deadlines requires these approaches:

Direct School Contact

  • Call admissions offices
  • Request waitlist spots
  • Check cancellations
  • Ask about openings
  • Submit interest forms
  • Schedule visits
  • Follow up regularly
  • Express commitment

Alternative Programs

  • Part-time options
  • Transitional classes
  • Mixed-age groups
  • Home-based programs
  • Co-op preschools
  • Learning centers
  • Summer programs
  • Bridge classes

Late Application Tips

Maximize acceptance chances with these strategies:

Document Preparation

  • Birth certificates
  • Health records
  • Immunization forms
  • Residency proof
  • Emergency contacts
  • Medical releases
  • Insurance cards
  • Parent identification

Program Flexibility

  • Alternative schedules
  • Part-time enrollment
  • Mid-year starts
  • Mixed-age classes
  • Extended care
  • Trial periods
  • Summer entry
  • Gradual transitions

Final Steps

A well-planned timeline supports successful preschool enrollment. Start research early, track deadlines, prepare documents, and maintain communication with schools. Multiple program applications increase enrollment opportunities. By following a structured preschool application timeline, parents can confidently navigate the process to find the best fit for their child.

Key Takeaways:

  • Begin research and preparation 12–18 months before enrollment.
  • Be mindful of regional deadlines and admission types.
  • Stay flexible and open to alternative options if needed.
  • Keep all documents organized and ready for submission.
  • Maintain regular communication with schools to stay informed.

A strategic approach ensures a smooth and successful application process, setting your child up for a positive early learning experience.