The State Council has issued the “Opinions on Gradually Implementing Free Preschool Education” (hereinafter referred to as the “Opinions”) to promote the widespread, inclusive, safe, and high-quality development of preschool education.
The “Opinions” emphasize adherence to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, thoroughly implementing the spirit of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China and its subsequent plenary sessions. It calls for fully implementing the Party’s education policies, addressing the urgent needs and expectations of the public, and gradually eliminating preschool education fees to effectively reduce educational costs, improve basic public education services, and deliver education that satisfies the people.
The “Opinions” specify that starting from the autumn semester of 2025, tuition fees for the first year of preschool education in public kindergartens will be waived. The exemption will follow the standards approved by local governments at or above the county level and their education and pricing authorities (excluding meal, accommodation, and miscellaneous fees). For eligible children attending private kindergartens approved by education authorities, fees will be reduced based on local public kindergarten standards. Private kindergartens may continue charging families for any costs exceeding the exemption level. The government will subsidize kindergartens for lost revenue due to the policy, considering factors such as the number of children and local fee standards.
The “Opinions” encourage provinces to strengthen financial aid policies for children from economically disadvantaged families, orphans, and children with disabilities, ensuring comprehensive support. Additionally, it calls for strict implementation of the “Preschool Education Law of the People’s Republic of China,” maintaining basic and inclusive education while improving funding mechanisms.
The “Opinions” require provinces to enhance coordination, refine implementation mechanisms, and clarify responsibilities to align with existing preschool education support policies. Local financial and education departments must strengthen oversight, ensure sufficient funding, and prevent delays in teacher salaries. Education authorities must enforce regulations to safeguard children’s physical and mental well-being.
