California (CA) Kindergarten Age Cut-Off & TK Info

Quick Answer: To enroll in kindergarten in California, a child must be 5 years old on or before September 1 of the school year. For children who turn 5 after this date, California offers a unique Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program.

California has one of the most well-defined systems for early childhood education, thanks to the Kindergarten Readiness Act (SB 1381). This guide explains the state’s kindergarten cut-off date and provides essential information about its pioneering Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program.

California Kindergarten Age

California’s Kindergarten Cut-Off: A Firm September 1st

Like many states, California uses a September 1st cut-off date. This means a child whose 5th birthday is on September 1 is eligible for kindergarten, while a child whose birthday is on September 2 is not. This rule is applied consistently across all public school districts in the state. For official details, you can refer to the California Department of Education (CDE) FAQ page.

You can quickly check your child’s eligibility using our Kindergarten Cut-Off Date Calculator.

What is Transitional Kindergarten (TK) in California?

Transitional Kindergarten is the solution for children who miss the kindergarten cut-off. It is the first year of a two-year kindergarten program designed to be a bridge between preschool and traditional kindergarten.

  • Who is it for? TK is specifically for children who turn 5 between September 2 and the end of the school year (this window is expanding).
  • What is the curriculum? TK uses a modified, age-appropriate kindergarten curriculum that is more play-based and focuses on developing social, emotional, and early academic skills.
  • Is it required? No, TK is optional for parents. However, school districts are required to offer it to all eligible children.
  • Universal TK Expansion: California is in the process of expanding its TK program to eventually include all 4-year-olds, making it a universal Pre-K program.

Frequently Asked Questions for California Parents

Can my child enter kindergarten early in California?

No, California does not have a process for early entry into traditional kindergarten. The September 1st cut-off is firm. The state’s designated program for children not meeting this age requirement is TK.

Is kindergarten mandatory in California?

No, kindergarten is not mandatory in California. Compulsory education in California begins at age 6. However, it is highly recommended, and nearly all California children attend either TK or traditional kindergarten. See our guide on mandatory kindergarten by state for more context.

If my child completes TK, do they go to kindergarten next?

Yes. After completing a year of Transitional Kindergarten, a student will then enroll in a traditional kindergarten class the following year. It is a two-year program in total.