Child care in San Antonio can cost more than rent. For a lot of families, going back to work barely pencils out once day care takes its cut. But San Antonio has several programs that cover child care and early learning at no cost for families who qualify — starting as early as age 3.
Pre-K 4 SA: free full-day pre-K
Pre-K 4 SA is San Antonio’s citywide early childhood program, funded through the city sales tax. It offers full-day pre-K for 3- and 4-year-olds, and it’s free for families who qualify — about 80% of enrolled children attend on full scholarships.
Who qualifies for free: children who turn 3 or 4 by September 1 and meet at least one of these — family income at or below 185% of the federal poverty line (roughly $42,000 for a family of four), homeless, in foster care, English as a second language, or a military family. You must live within San Antonio city limits or a participating school district.
What’s included: the school day runs with extended hours for working families (roughly 7:15 a.m. to 6 p.m.), and breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included. Free transportation is available to students.
How to apply: visit prek4sa.com and check the admissions/eligibility page. The program runs four Education Centers across the city (North, South, East, West).
Head Start: free early learning for ages 3–5
Head Start provides free early childhood education, health screenings, and family support for children from low-income families. In San Antonio, school districts run Head Start classrooms — for example, South San Antonio ISD’s Head Start program enrolls 3- and 4-year-olds for full-day pre-K.
- South San Antonio ISD Head Start: (210) 977-7000
- Ask your own school district about Head Start seats — most San Antonio-area districts participate.
Child Care Scholarships (CCS): help paying for day care
If you’re working, in school, or in job training and need help paying for child care, the Child Care Scholarships (CCS) program through Workforce Solutions Alamo helps cover the cost. Apply early — there can be a waitlist.
- Call: 1-888-265-6461
- Online: childcare.twc.texas.gov
What to do first
- If your child is 3 or 4: check Pre-K 4 SA eligibility at prek4sa.com first — it’s the most comprehensive free option (full day, meals, extended hours).
- If your child is under 3 or you need infant/toddler care: call CCS at 1-888-265-6461 about scholarships, and ask Pre-K 4 SA about their infant-toddler pilot classrooms.
- If you’re unsure: dial 2-1-1 — they’ll route you to the right child care resource for your ZIP code and situation.
FAQ
Is Pre-K 4 SA really free?
Yes, for families who meet the eligibility requirements — about 80% of enrolled children attend free. Families above the income limits can attend as tuition students.
What ages are covered?
Pre-K 4 SA serves 3- and 4-year-olds (must turn 3 or 4 by September 1). Head Start serves ages 3–5. CCS scholarships can cover infants and toddlers too, depending on availability.
What if I don’t qualify for free pre-K?
Apply anyway if you’re close — some seats go by lottery, and districts have their own pre-K programs with different rules. CCS scholarships are the backup for working parents who need day care rather than pre-K.
How do I apply?
Pre-K 4 SA: prek4sa.com admissions page. Head Start: call your school district (South SA ISD: (210) 977-7000). CCS: 1-888-265-6461 or childcare.twc.texas.gov.
