Early Education Programs Cost & Fees

Most San Francisco families qualify for free or reduced-cost tuition at SFUSD preschools!

Subsidized Link to this section

SFUSD participates in State-funded programs that offer subsidies to eligible families with toddlers and preschoolers. Eligibility is determined by both family income and well as a need (i.e. working, seeking employment, attending school, homeless/seeking permanent housing, etc.) 

San Francisco Unified is part of the Early Learning For All network! Families who reside in San Francisco receive free or subsidized tuition when they enroll at San Francisco Unified preschools. 

Use the chart below to determine what level of subsidy your family might qualify for.

Families who are eligible for state subsidies (CCTR for toddlers, CSPP for preschools) or Early Learning For All Free Tuition pay no fees.   Families who are eligible for Early Learning for All's Full Tuition Credit  will pay a fee of $85/month in 2026-27. Families who are elibible for Early Learning for All's Half Tuition Credit will pay a fee of $1,142/month in 2026-27.

Tuition-Based

Families who exceed the gross income limits for State and City-funded subsidies, or families who do not wish to disclose their income, are also welcome to enroll in San Francisco Unified preschools. These families agree to pay the full cost of tuition.

The rate for Preschool tuition is $2,2000/month. A non-refundable application fee of $175.00 payable to "SFUSD Early Education Department" must be submitted with the tuition-based application for each child you wish to enroll (cashier's check or money order only; no personal checks or cash). Please be sure to include your child's first and last name and date of birth on the cashier's check or money order.

Tuition-based and subsidized children are in the same classrooms and receive the same services.

Early Education Department Tuition and Monthly Payments