Eligibility & Program Types

HeadStartPrograms.org is an independent informational directory. We do not determine eligibility, accept official enrollment applications, or guarantee placement. Program details may change, so confirm application steps, eligibility requirements, hours, and availability directly with the local Head Start program. For the official federal locator, visit HeadStart.gov.

Local programs make final eligibility and enrollment decisions. The information below is general guidance to help you understand common program types and eligibility pathways — contact your local program to confirm your specific situation.

Head Start

Comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family-support services for children ages 3 to 5, primarily from low-income families. You may qualify based on household income, receipt of certain public assistance, foster care status, homelessness, or other circumstances local programs consider.

Early Head Start

Similar services for pregnant women, infants, and toddlers up to age 3. Eligibility can depend on similar income and circumstance-based factors as Head Start.

Migrant and Seasonal Head Start

Programs designed to serve the children of families who work in agriculture. Eligibility can depend on a family's current or recent agricultural employment, in addition to the general Head Start eligibility pathways.

American Indian and Alaska Native Head Start

Programs operated by and for American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Eligibility can depend on tribal affiliation and community-specific criteria in addition to general Head Start eligibility pathways.

Common Eligibility Pathways

Contact your local program to confirm which of these apply to your family. Common pathways include:

Household income at or below the federal poverty guidelines;
Receipt of certain public assistance (for example, TANF or SSI);
A child in foster care;
A family experiencing homelessness.

Local programs may also reserve a portion of openings for children who don't meet standard income requirements. Eligibility can depend on the specific local program and current funding — always confirm directly with them.

Documents You May Need

Local programs commonly request documents like these during their own application process. Exact requirements vary by program — ask your local program for their specific list before you apply:

Proof of the child's age (such as a birth certificate);
Proof of household income or public-assistance enrollment;
Proof of address;
Immunization records.

Please do not submit: Social Security numbers, birth certificates, income or tax documents, medical records, immigration documents, benefit-account details, or other official application materials through this form. Official enrollment documents must be submitted directly to the local Head Start program.

Applications and Waitlists

Local availability changes throughout the year and openings are often limited. Many programs maintain a waitlist once current openings are filled. The local program's own application process determines the order and timing of enrollment — this directory does not manage waitlists or enrollment decisions.

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