Heads up, parents! The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially announced an update to the Kindergarten age eligibility requirement through DepEd Order No. 015, s. 2025, which amends the previous DepEd Order No. 47, s. 2016.
What’s the new Kinder age requirement?
To qualify for Kindergarten for School Year 2025–2026, children must meet the following criteria:
But what if your child’s birthday falls later in the year?
Exceptions for November–December birthdays
If your child turns 5 years old between November 1 and December 31, 2025, they may still be admitted to Kindergarten, provided that they meet at least one of the following conditions:
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✔️ The child has completed one school year of an Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program accredited by the government, or
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✔️ The child has undergone assessment using the Philippine Early Childhood Development (ECD) Checklist upon enrollment.
These guidelines aim to ensure that children entering Kindergarten are developmentally prepared and set up for success in formal education.
What parents should do next
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📅 Check your child’s birthdate and see if they meet the new cut-off.
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🏫 Consult your preferred school if your child has a November or December birthday and ask about the ECCD program or ECD Checklist requirements.
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📚 Consider enrolling your child in a recognized ECCD program this year if they don’t meet the age cut-off yet but will be turning 5 by year-end.
Why this matters
Starting formal education at the right developmental stage is crucial. DepEd’s updated policy ensures that every child entering Kindergarten is ready socially, emotionally, and cognitively.
Sources:
DepEd Order No. 015, s. 2025 (Official PDF)
DepEd Order No. 47, s. 2016
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