Is PN Class Free in Hong Kong? Age, Fees & Application Guide (2026)
Is PN class free? No. PN classes are not covered by the Free Kindergarten Scheme. This guide explains PN class fees, age requirements, application process and school selection tips.
Is PN Class Free?
No, PN class is not free. According to EDB policy, PN (Pre-Nursery) classes are not covered by the Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme. Parents must pay out of pocket. Government subsidies only cover K1 to K3.
PN class monthly fees typically range from HK$2,000 to HK$15,000, depending on school type. See fee reference below.
What is PN Class?
PN (Pre-Nursery) class, also known as "playgroup" or "two-year-old class," provides pre-kindergarten education for children aged 2 to 3. According to the Education Bureau's (EDB) Kindergarten Education Curriculum Guide, PN classes help children adapt to school environments and group settings before formally entering kindergarten (K1).
Official Policy Framework
EDB Regulations
Under the Education Ordinance and EDB guidelines, PN classes are regulated as follows:
- Registration: Kindergartens offering PN classes must register with EDB
- Teacher-student ratio: Recommended ratio of 1:8 to ensure adequate care
- Curriculum: Must align with the Kindergarten Education Curriculum Guide
Free Kindergarten Scheme Coverage
According to the EDB's Kindergarten Education Scheme:
| Class | Covered | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PN | No | Self-funded, no government subsidy |
| K1-K3 | Yes | Free half-day education at participating kindergartens |
Policy basis: The EDB explicitly states that the Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme covers K1 to K3 only; PN classes are not subsidised.
Age Requirements
Official Age Criteria
According to EDB guidelines, PN class admission requires:
- Minimum age: 2 years old
- Calculation basis: As of September 1st of the admission year
- Maximum age: Under 3 years old
Age Reference (2026-2027 School Year)
| Entry Year | Birth Date Requirement |
|---|---|
| September 2026 | Born between 1 Sep 2024 and 31 Aug 2024 |
| September 2027 | Born between 1 Sep 2025 and 31 Aug 2025 |
Application Timeline
PN class applications typically begin earlier than K1, with schools setting their own schedules:
| Stage | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|
| Admission details announced | June-July |
| Application period | July-September |
| Interviews | August-October |
| Results announced | September-November |
Important: Since there is no centralised placement for PN classes, parents must apply directly to preferred schools. Popular schools fill up quickly, so early action is recommended.
Fee Reference
As PN classes are not government-subsidised, fees vary by school type:
| School Type | Monthly Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Non-profit kindergartens | HK$2,000 - $5,000 |
| Private kindergartens | HK$4,000 - $10,000 |
| International schools | HK$8,000 - $15,000 |
Note: Fees must be approved by EDB. Parents can check each school's fees in the EDB's Kindergarten Profile.
School Selection Tips
Consider Direct Promotion
When choosing a PN class, consider:
- Whether the school reserves K1 places for PN students
- Direct promotion ratio and conditions
- K1 teaching quality and reputation
Teacher-Student Ratio
According to EDB recommendations, quality PN classes should have:
- Teacher-student ratio of 1:6 to 1:8
- Qualified early childhood educators
- Appropriate classroom environment and facilities
Proximity Principle
- Long commutes are unsuitable for 2-year-olds
- Choose schools within 15 minutes travel time
- Consider convenience of pick-up arrangements
FAQs
What's the Difference Between PN and Nursery (N) Classes?
| Item | PN Class | N Class (Child Care Centre) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory body | Education Bureau | Social Welfare Department |
| Age | 2-3 years | 2-3 years |
| Progression | Direct to K1 | Separate kindergarten application needed |
Does Not Attending PN Affect K1 Admission?
No. K1 applications are independent, and children without PN experience can apply to any kindergarten. However, if your preferred school offers direct promotion from PN, attending their PN class provides an advantage.
Is There Any Government Subsidy for PN Class?
No. The Free Quality Kindergarten Education Scheme only covers K1-K3. PN class fees must be paid in full. Families with financial difficulties may apply for the Kindergarten Fee Remission Scheme from the Student Finance Office.
Why Isn't PN Class Free?
The EDB's policy positions education before age 3 as "pre-kindergarten preparation" rather than formal kindergarten education, hence it's not included in the free education scheme. Parents may alternatively consider nursery classes (N class) regulated by the Social Welfare Department, which have a similar fee structure.
This article is based on official EDB information. For the latest policies, please refer to the EDB Pre-primary Education webpage.