Step-by-Step Guide to Preschool Registration 2026 Academic Session

Just yesterday, it felt like you were in the hospital, carefully strapping your newborn into the car seat for the first ride home.

In the blink of an eye, those tiny hands have grown, and now it’s time to prepare for preschool registration.

For many parents, this marks a huge milestone – one filled with excitement, anticipation, and maybe even a little anxiety.

After all, preschool is often a child’s first step into structured learning, independence, and social interaction.

But where do you even begin?

With different preschool options, registration deadlines, and required documents, the process can feel overwhelming.

The good news? You’re not alone.

This step-by-step guide will help you understand the preschool system, gather the necessary documents, and successfully register your child.

So, when the first day of school arrives, both you and your little one will be ready to take on this new adventure!

MOE Preschools – Application Process and Required Documents

Before applying for a MOE preschool (Tadika KPM), parents must ensure their child meets the eligibility criteria:

• Malaysian citizen
• Born between 2 January 2020 and 15 January 2022
• Only one school selection per application

Parents can choose to apply via two methods:

• Online via the ePrasekolah portal (1 March 2023 – 30 April 2025)
• Manual submission at the selected school (1 March 2023 – 31 May 2025)

Step-by-Step Guide for Online Applications (ePrasekolah)

1. Visit the Official Website

• Go to ePrasekolah.
• For the best experience, use Google Chrome as your web browser.

2. Register as a New User

• If you are a first-time user, create an ePrasekolah account.
• Log in using your registered ID and password.

3. Access the Preschool Application Form

• Click on ‘Borang Permohonan Prasekolah’ to start the application process.

4. Complete the Application Form

• Fill in all necessary details, including child’s information, parents’ details, and contact information.
• Select one preschool for your application.

5. Verify and Submit the Application:

• Review all information entered before submitting. Ensure that details are accurate.

6. Print the Submitted Application Form

• Once submitted, print a hard copy of the application.

7. Submit Printed Form and Required Documents

• The printed application form, along with supporting documents, must be submitted to the selected preschool by 31 May 2025.

Step-by-Step Guide for Manual Applications

1. Obtain the Application Form

•  Print the application form online and submit it manually or collect and complete the form directly at the centre before submission.

2. Complete the Form

• Fill in all required details accurately.

3. Prepare Required Documents

• Child’s birth certificate (original and copy)
• Updated immunisation record
• Copies of both parents’ MyKad (ICs)
• Recent passport-sized photographs of the child (2-4 copies)
• Proof of residence (e.g. utility bill)
• Payslips of parents

4. Submit the Completed Form

• Hand in the completed application form and documents to the selected preschool before 31 May 2025.

Checking Application Results

After submission, parents can check the application results from 5 August 2025 through the following methods:

• Online via ePrasekolah – Log in to ePrasekolah to check the status.
• Manual Check at the Applied Preschool – Visit the preschool where the application was submitted.

Appeal Process for Unsuccessful Applications

If an application is unsuccessful, parents can submit an appeal within two weeks after the results are announced.

1. Online Appeals

• Submit an appeal via ePrasekolah.
• Appeal results can be checked online from 10 September 2025.

2. Manual Appeals

• Parents who applied manually can submit an appeal directly at the preschool, the District Education Office (PPD), or the State Education Department (JPN) (for states without a PPD/PPW (Territory Education Office)).
• The school will notify parents if their appeal is successful.

Tabika Kemas – Application Process and Required Documents

Tabika Kemas is a government-funded preschool under the Ministry of Rural Development (KEMAS).

It provides early childhood education for children in rural and suburban communities.

Application Process for Tabika Kemas

1. Check Eligibility

• Tabika Kemas accepts children between ages of four to six years old.
• Parents should check with the nearest Tabika Kemas centre for registration dates (varies by location).

2. Obtain and Complete the Registration Form

• Registration is done manually at the nearest Tabika Kemas centre.
• Parents can either print the application form online and submit it manually or collect and complete the form directly at the centre before submission.

3. Submit the Required Documents

• Child’s birth certificate (original and copy)
• Parents’ MyKad (IC) copies
• Updated immunisation record
• Recent passport-sized photographs of the child (2-4 copies)
• Household income statement (for fee subsidies, if applicable)

4. Wait for Approval and Confirmation

• The preschool will review applications and notify parents about admission status.
• If accepted, parents will receive further instructions for school enrolment.

5. Prepare for the First Day of Preschool

• Purchase any required school materials, including uniforms and books.
• Follow any additional guidelines provided by the Tabika Kemas centre.

3. Private Preschools – Application Process and Required Documents

Private preschools offer a variety of teaching methods, such as Montessori, play-based learning, and religious-based education.

Fees vary depending on the school’s facilities, location, and programme offerings.

Application Process for Private Preschools

1. Research and Select a Preschool

• Parents should consider factors such as curriculum, fees, teacher qualifications, class size, and school environment.
• It is advisable to visit the preschool, attend an open day, or arrange a trial class.

2. Check Registration Dates & Submit an Application

• Unlike government preschools, private schools have different enrolment periods. Some allow rolling admissions, while others require early registration (up to a year in advance).
• Some private preschools allow online applications, while others require in-person submission.

3. Provide Required Documents

• Child’s birth certificate (original and copy)
• Updated immunisation record
• Parents’ MyKad (IC) copies
• Recent passport-sized photographs of the child (2-4 copies)
• Proof of residence
• Additional documents (if required by the preschool)

4. Attend an Interview or Assessment

• Some private preschools conduct interviews or readiness tests to assess the child’s development.
• The school may require parent meetings to discuss expectations and educational approaches.

5. Confirm Admission and Pay Fees

• Once accepted, parents must pay registration fees and deposits to secure their child’s place.
• The school will provide details about uniforms, books, and other requirements.

6. Get Ready for Preschool

• Help your child adjust by practising school routines, encouraging independence, and talking positively about school.

Confirm Placement and Prepare for the School Year

Once admission is confirmed to your selected schools, parents may need to pay registration fees or submit additional documents.

Some preschools also provide a school kit or a list of required items such as uniforms, books, and supplies.

To prepare a child for preschool:

• Introduce them to a routine similar to a school schedule, including wake-up times and meal timings.
• Talk to them about school in a positive way to reduce anxiety.
• Encourage independence by teaching them basic self-care skills like using the toilet, washing hands, and putting on shoes.

By following these steps, parents can navigate the preschool registration process smoothly and ensure a positive start to their child’s early education journey.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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