DepEd expands Kindergarten age cut-off to widen access to early education

Children who turn five years old on or before October 31 will be eligible to enroll in Kindergarten starting School Year 2025–2026, according to the Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara on June 5.

“This policy is rooted in our understanding that every child grows and learns at their own pace,” Angara said. 

He also noted that it promotes inclusive and flexible education, aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for accessible and learner-centered education across the country.

“By allowing more flexibility in the Kindergarten age requirement, we are making sure that each learner has the opportunity to start strong and succeed from day one,” he added.

The previous age cut-off for Kindergarten admission was August 31, which limited access to early education for many Filipino children.

The expanded age eligibility is expected to benefit thousands of children, especially those born in September and October, who were previously ineligible.

Meanwhile, special consideration was taken among children who are born between November 1 to December 31, providing the conditions to complete the one-year Early Childhood Development (ECD) in an accredited Children Development Center or to pass the ECD checklist during enrollment or within the first week of class. 

Private schools are also required to comply with the new cut-off policy, although they may implement additional readiness assessments before admitting learners.

With enrollment scheduled from June 9 to 13 in public schools nationwide, DepEd anticipates an increase in the number of Kindergarten enrollees for the upcoming school year.