Kindergarten Registration & Application Fee Limits | 2026/27 Official Standards
Under the EDB's Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme, application fees are capped at $40 and registration fees at $970-$1,570. Learn the official fee regulations and key considerations.
Policy Background
The Hong Kong Government launched the Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme (FQKE) from the 2017/18 school year, providing subsidies to local non-profit kindergartens. Schools participating in the scheme must comply with EDB fee regulations, including caps on application and registration fees.
According to the EDB's Kindergarten Administration Guide and annual circulars, the fee caps for 2026/27 are as follows:
Fee Caps for Scheme Kindergartens
Application Fee
| Item | Maximum | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $40 | Non-refundable regardless of admission outcome |
Registration Fee
| Session Type | Maximum | Policy Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Half-day | $970 | EDB Circular |
| Full-day / Long Full-day | $1,570 | EDB Circular |
Important Notes:
- Registration fees may be used to offset the first instalment of school fees
- If a student subsequently gives up the place, schools must refund a portion of the registration fee proportionally
- Schools cannot charge "seat deposit" or "confirmation fee" beyond the registration fee
Non-Scheme Kindergartens
Private independent kindergartens and international schools are not bound by these caps:
| School Type | Application Fee | Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Private KG | $100 - $500 | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| International School | $500 - $2,000 | $5,000 - $30,000 |
Figures are market reference ranges. Actual fees vary by school.
Refund Policy Requirements
According to EDB guidelines, scheme kindergartens must follow these refund arrangements:
Application Fee
- Non-refundable in all circumstances
Registration Fee
- Withdrawal before "Centralised Registration Dates": Schools must refund (may deduct admin fee)
- Withdrawal after "Centralised Registration Dates": Subject to school policy, typically non-refundable
Fee Remission Scheme
Families facing financial difficulties may apply for the Kindergarten and Child Care Centre Fee Remission Scheme:
| Assistance Level | Remission Rate | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Full Assistance | 100% | Families most in need |
| 3/4 Assistance | 75% | Families in greater need |
| Half Assistance | 50% | Families in need |
Application: Submit online or by post through the Student Finance Office (SFAA).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I pay registration fees to multiple schools simultaneously?
A: Technically yes, but not recommended. Each child can only attend one school ultimately, and additional registration fees may not be refundable. We suggest registering only after confirming your preferred school.
Q: Can schools charge an "interview fee"?
A: Schools in the FQKE scheme cannot charge interview fees or any additional charges under any name. The application fee already covers administrative costs for interview arrangements.
Q: How do I verify if a school participates in the FQKE scheme?
A: Check the "Kindergarten Profile" on the EDB website, or enquire directly with the school. Our school pages also indicate scheme participation status.
Official Resources
- EDB Kindergarten Administration Guide
- Student Finance Office - KG Fee Remission Scheme
- EDB "Kindergarten Profile"
Information compiled based on EDB circulars for 2025/26 to 2026/27 school years. Actual fees are subject to each school's and EDB's latest announcements.