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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Enrollment Period
Open enrollment
Established
1965
Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education, health screening, nutrition, and family engagement services to children from birth to age five from low-income families at no cost. The program builds the social, emotional, and cognitive foundations children need to succeed in school and life. Enrollment prioritizes families with incomes at or below the federal poverty level.
Head Start has served over 38 million children since it launched in 1965.
People Helped
800,000 children
enrolled annually
Annual Federal Budget
$12 billion
Average Benefit
Free full-day programs (valued at $8,000–$14,000/year per child)
Where Available
All 50 states, DC, and US territories
Answer each question — we'll show you exactly what applies to your situation.
What is your household income?
This program requires income at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level — that's the government's measure of what it costs to meet basic needs. Select your household size to see your exact dollar limit.
Count everyone who lives and eats with you — yourself, spouse/partner, children, and any dependents. Count a pregnant woman as 2.
Are you currently pregnant, breastfeeding, or did you recently give birth?
Children in foster care are automatically eligible regardless of income?
Do you have a documented disability?
Are you a US resident?