Kindergarten Voucher Scheme Cancelled: Complete Guide to Free Kindergarten Education
The voucher scheme was replaced by the Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme in 2017. Learn about policy changes, current subsidies, eligibility, and fee remission with official EDB references.
Key Takeaways
Many parents still search for "kindergarten voucher" but the voucher scheme was officially cancelled in the 2017/18 school year, replaced by the "Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme". Parents no longer need to apply for any "vouchers" - simply enrol in a participating kindergarten to automatically receive government subsidies.
Policy Timeline
| Period | Policy Name | Subsidy Method |
|---|---|---|
| 2007-2017 | Pre-primary Education Voucher Scheme | Vouchers issued to parents |
| 2017-present | Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme | Direct funding to schools |
Old System: Pre-primary Education Voucher Scheme (2007-2017)
The voucher scheme launched in 2007/08 aimed to reduce tuition burden for parents.
How It Worked
- Government issued vouchers to eligible children
- Parents used vouchers for tuition, paying the difference
- Only non-profit kindergartens could participate
Voucher Amount
- Maximum subsidy in 2016/17: $33,410/year
- Separate fee remission scheme available for low-income families
Main Limitations
- Parents still paid substantial out-of-pocket fees
- Lower participation rate among schools
- Private independent kindergartens excluded
New System: Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme (2017-present)
According to the Education Bureau's Kindergarten Education Programme Overview, the new scheme significantly improved the funding model:
Core Changes
- Funding method: Government subsidises schools directly, no more vouchers
- Free half-day classes: Half-day classes at participating schools are essentially free
- Wider coverage: About 75% of kindergartens participate
2025/26 School Year Subsidy Rates
| Class Type | Annual Subsidy Per Student |
|---|---|
| Half-day | $44,640 |
| Full-day | $63,720 |
| Long full-day | $77,580 |
Source: Education Bureau Kindergarten Education Scheme
Actual School Fees
- Completely free: Some schools charge $0 for half-day classes
- Low fees: Full-day classes after subsidy cost approximately $5,000-$15,000/year
- Higher fees: Non-participating schools or international kindergartens charge $50,000-$150,000/year
Eligibility Requirements
Child Eligibility
- Hong Kong resident status
- Age requirement met (K1: must be 2 years 8 months by 31 August of the school year)
School Eligibility
Schools must meet these criteria to participate:
- Non-profit status
- Local curriculum
- Meet EDB quality requirements
Support for Low-Income Families
Kindergarten Fee Remission Scheme
Even with free half-day classes, low-income families can apply for additional support:
| Remission Level | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Full remission | 100% |
| 3/4 remission | 75% |
| Half remission | 50% |
Application: Submit "Student Financial Assistance Schemes - Combined Application" through Student Finance Office
Additional Support
- Kindergarten and Child Care Centre Fee Remission Scheme (KCFR)
- Working Family Allowance
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need to apply for vouchers?
No. The voucher system has ended. Enrolling in a participating school automatically qualifies you for subsidies.
How do I know if a school participates?
- Check our website for "Free Scheme" label on school pages
- EDB Kindergarten Profile website
- Ask the school directly
Do international schools receive subsidies?
International schools and private independent kindergartens generally do not participate and receive no government subsidies.
Official Resources
Information based on EDB announcements for the 2025/26 school year. Please refer to official sources for the latest policies.