Illinois school age calculator
Illinois requires children to be 5 years old by September 1 to start kindergarten that fall. Enter your child's birthday to check eligibility and see their complete K–12 school timeline.
Select your country and region, then choose the child's date of birth to see their grade and school timeline.
Illinois kindergarten rules
Under the Illinois School Code (105 ILCS 5/10-20.12), school districts must accept children for kindergarten if they turn 5 on or before September 1. Illinois does not have a statewide Transitional Kindergarten program, though some districts offer their own pre-K programs for 4-year-olds. The Chicago Public Schools system follows the September 1 cutoff and offers a network of free Pre-K programs for eligible 4-year-olds.
Illinois Pre-K and Head Start
Illinois has one of the most extensive state-funded Pre-K programs in the country. The Illinois Preschool for All program provides free preschool to eligible 3- and 4-year-olds at risk of academic failure, with priority given to families near or below the poverty line. Head Start and Early Head Start programs also serve low-income families. The Chicago Pre-K program through Chicago Public Schools extends free pre-K to all children in many neighborhoods.
FAQ
What is Illinois's kindergarten cutoff date?
Illinois uses September 1 as the kindergarten cutoff. Children must turn 5 on or before September 1 to start kindergarten that school year.
Is kindergarten mandatory in Illinois?
Illinois law requires school attendance from age 6. Kindergarten is not technically compulsory, but since compulsory age starts at 6, most families enroll children at 5. Some districts may require enrollment at 5 if the child is age-eligible.
What pre-K programs are available in Illinois?
Illinois Preschool for All serves eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. Head Start serves low-income families. Chicago Public Schools offers free pre-K in many neighborhoods. Contact your local school district for the programs available near you.