Preschool enrollment: how the process works
Enrolling a child in preschool usually moves through a few clear stages. The exact steps, dates and paperwork are set by each school and by local rules, so treat this as a general guide and confirm details with the school.
The usual enrollment steps
1. Enquiry: the family contacts the school by form, email or phone to ask about places, ages and schedules.
2. Tour or visit: the family books a visit to see classrooms, meet staff and ask about the curriculum and daily routine.
3. Application form: the family completes the school's enrollment form with child and guardian details.
4. Documents: the school collects the records it needs, which commonly include proof of age, health or immunisation records and emergency contacts.
5. Waitlist or offer: if a place is free the school makes an offer; if the class is full the family may join a waitlist.
6. Acceptance and start: the family accepts the offer and the school shares start dates, settling-in plans and what to bring.
Finding a preschool
Search the IPC school directory to find preschools and early-years settings by country and city, then contact schools directly to start an enquiry.
For schools: running enrollment with IPC
IPC Electronic Enrollment helps schools collect enquiries, manage online enrollment forms and keep follow-up organised. The IPC Enrollment Officer can answer family questions on a school's website using only that school's information.
Opening a new setting? Read how to start a preschool and explore the IPC curriculum.
Frequently asked questions
- When should families start the preschool enrollment process?
- It depends on the school and the local intake calendar. Many schools take enquiries all year and fill places for the next term in advance, so families should contact schools early and ask about their deadlines.
- What documents are usually needed to enroll in preschool?
- Requirements vary by school and local rules. Schools commonly ask for proof of the child's age, immunisation or health records, emergency contacts and parent or guardian details. Ask each school for its own list.
- What is a preschool waitlist?
- When a class is full, a school may keep a waitlist of families and offer places as they open. Ask how the list is ordered and how you will be contacted.
- Can a school run enrollment online?
- Yes. IPC Electronic Enrollment lets schools collect enquiries and enrollment forms online and keep follow-up organised in one place.