In South Australia, most children start school the year they turn 5 or 6 years old.
When your child is eligible to begin school will depend on their date of birth, and whether you're applying to public or private school.
From 2024, children who turn 5 years old:
- before 1 May can start school in term 1
- between 1 May and 31 October can start school in term 3 (mid-year intake)
- after 31 October start the following year.
In South Australia, all children must be in school by their 6th birthday – this is the compulsory school age.
Enrolment process
Details of school enrolment processes are generally published on school websites.
To enrol at a South Australia public school:
- check to see when your child is eligible to start preschool and school
- complete the school's application or registration of interest form (supplied by the school) by the due dates
- check how the schools determine places or if they have more requests (including school zones)
- prepare documents required for confirming your enrolment and your pre-enrolment interview.
Education support
Some families may be eligible for additional support and/or financial assistance with their child’s education. See:
- support programs available to students, including gifted and talented learners and support to learn English
- financial support schemes including grants for young people, school card and travel allowances.
There are other education options for some children and their families - see exemption from attending school.
For further information contact your local public school to discuss enrolment.
