DepEd Releases New Kinder Age Cut-Off for School Year 2025–2026

DepEd just announced a new Kinder age requirement for SY 2025–2026. Here's what parents need to know if their child turns 5 between November and December 2025.

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:

✅ Be 5 years old on or before October 31, 2025.

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:

✔️ The child has completed one school year of an Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program accredited by the government, or
✔️ 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

???? Check your child’s birthdate and see if they meet the new cut-off.
???? Consult your preferred school if your child has a November or December birthday and ask about the ECCD program or ECD Checklist requirements.
???? 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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Hazel Paras-Cariño

Maging Contributor

KindergartenParenting newsFilipinoDepEdKinder age requirement 2025ECCDPhilippine ECD Checklistschool enrollmentpreschool age cut-offeducation PH

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Hazel Paras-Cariño

Hi, I’m Hazel Paras-Cariño—Head of Content at theAsianparent Philippines, proud mom of two, and passionate storyteller at heart. With over 11 years of experience in content strategy, digital marketing, and editorial leadership, I now lead our content across web, app, and social platforms to serve one of the most important audiences out there: Filipino parents. Whether it's creating informative articles, engaging mobile experiences, or meaningful social conversations, I believe content should connect with both data and heart.

Before this role, I worked as App Marketing Manager and Web Content Editor at theAsianparent, and previously contributed to NGOs, tech, and creative industries. I hold a Master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communication, but my real education comes from balancing deadlines, diapers, and the daily chaos of motherhood. When I’m off-duty, you’ll find me painting, dancing, or exploring imaginative stories with my kids—sometimes all at once.

Let’s keep creating content that informs, empowers, and uplifts families.

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