Applications for Hawaii’s Preschool Open Doors program for the 2026-27 school year will open May 29, with state officials encouraging eligible families to apply early due to expected demand.

The tuition assistance program helps families pay for preschool for eligible children ages 2 to 4 who are not eligible for kindergarten entry in the 2027-28 school year. Eligible children must be born between Aug. 1, 2021, and July 31, 2024.

Officials said families currently receiving Preschool Open Doors assistance for the 2025-26 school year will need to submit a new application.

The program allows families to choose from 389 licensed preschools and group child care homes statewide. Maximum monthly subsidies are $1,500 for accredited programs and $1,200 for licensed programs.

Income eligibility is based on family size and household gross monthly income. For example, the income limit is $10,371 for a family of two, $13,092 for a family of three and $15,813 for a family of four.

Applications will be accepted through May 31, 2027, or until funding capacity is reached.

Families may apply online beginning May 29 through the Department of Human Services at childcaresubsidyapplication.dhs.hawaii.gov. Additional information is available through PATCH at patchhawaii.org or by calling (808) 791-2130 or toll-free at (800) 746-5620.