How Old Are You in Kindergarten? Age Requirements & Start Dates
Quick Answer: To start kindergarten in the United States, children must be 5 years old by a specific “cut-off” date set by their state. This means most children are 5 years old for the entire kindergarten year, though some may turn 6 during the school year.
Kindergarten is the foundational year of a child’s formal education journey. One of the most common questions parents have is whether their child is the right age to start. While the answer seems simple—age 5—the details can be complex due to varying state laws.
The Critical Role of the Kindergarten Cut-Off Date
The single most important factor in determining kindergarten eligibility is your state’s cut-off date. This is the date by which your child must turn 5 to enroll for that academic year.
- Example: If your state’s cut-off date is September 1, a child with a birthday on August 30 is eligible to start kindergarten at age 5. A child with a birthday on September 2 will have to wait until the next school year, starting kindergarten when they are nearly 6.
- Impact on Age: This rule is why a single kindergarten class can have children who are just turning 5 alongside classmates who are almost 6.
Because these dates vary, it’s essential to know the rule for your specific location. You can quickly find your state’s cut-off date and check your child’s eligibility using our easy US Kindergarten Cut-Off Date Calculator.
Kindergarten Age: Quick Facts
| Required Age | 5 years old (by the state’s cut-off date) |
| Typical Age Range | 5-6 years old |
| Is Kindergarten Mandatory? | It depends on the state. See our state-by-state guide. |
| What if My Child Misses the Cut-Off? | They must wait for the next school year, or parents can explore private school options. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can my child start kindergarten if they are 4?
Generally, no. A child must be 5 by the cut-off date. Even if a child turns 5 one day after the deadline, they are typically not eligible for public kindergarten. Some states may have a process for testing gifted children for early entry, but this is uncommon and requires special permission from the school district.
What if my child is eligible but doesn’t seem ready?
This is a common concern for parents, especially for children with summer birthdays who will be the youngest in their class. Some parents opt to delay kindergarten for a year, a practice called “redshirting.” This is a significant decision with both potential benefits and drawbacks. We highly recommend reading our guide: Delaying Kindergarten: Pros, Cons & Age 6 Start.
What is Transitional Kindergarten (TK)?
Some states, like California, offer a Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program. It’s designed for children who are not old enough for regular kindergarten (i.e., their 5th birthday is after the cut-off date). It serves as a bridge year between preschool and kindergarten. Learn more in our California Kindergarten Guide.