Last verified: October 2026
Is pre-K free in Nashville?
Pre-K is free for many Nashville four-year-olds through Tennessee Voluntary Pre-K, which Metro Nashville Public Schools runs in Davidson County with priority for income-eligible children. Children must turn four by August 15, and some MNPS classrooms take three-year-olds.
MNPS opens its 2027-28 pre-K application on March 1, 2027 and publishes fees for seats that are not free.
Can I get help paying for daycare in the Nashville area?
Yes, if parents work or study at least 30 hours a week and household income is at or below 85% of state median income, TDHS Smart Steps can pay part of the cost at a participating licensed provider for children from six weeks through kindergarten. The family pays a weekly copay.
TDHS is currently working through a waitlist and gives contacted families 14 days to apply.
Do private preschools in Nashville accept state funding?
Some do, in two ways: a licensed center can accept Smart Steps payments, and a district can contract with a community provider to host a VPK classroom. Several early-learning franchises in the area are also EFS-registered, which matters once a child reaches kindergarten.
The directory's preschool hub lists 22 programs that end at pre-K or kindergarten.
| Voluntary Pre-K | Smart Steps | |
|---|---|---|
| Ages | Four by August 15 | 6 weeks through kindergarten |
| Run by | Local school district | TDHS |
| Cost to family | Free for eligible children | Weekly copay |
| Main test | Household income and risk factors | Income at or under 85% SMI plus 30 hours work/school |
What should a Nashville family do next?
Take the two-minute funding check. A tuition counselor will confirm which program fits, what it is worth for your child and which date is next.