Three-year-old preschool becomes compulsory in Buenos Aires schools from 2027

Preschool for three-year-olds will become compulsory in Buenos Aires from the 2027 academic year after the city legislature approved the change unanimously.

Until now, compulsory education in the city’s early-childhood system began at age four. The new law adds the three-year-old classroom, meaning the final three years of kindergarten, ages three, four and five, will form part of the compulsory period.

The legislation defines early education as a continuous pedagogical unit covering children from 45 days old through age five. It also requires the city to progressively provide full-day places and flexible attendance options, including half-day or full-day schedules, for families who need them.

“

We approved a law making preschool for three-year-olds compulsory in the city. The first years are decisive for every child’s development. This is when language, curiosity, the ability to live with others, play, expression and learning take shape. Congratulations to Jorge Macri, Mercedes Miguel and all the political forces that worked together to turn it into unanimous law.

The law gives authorities two years to adjust the supply of places for three-year-olds and to incorporate children attending Early Childhood Centers, Child Development Centers and registered educational care gardens into the official system. The aim is to preserve the length of the schedules they already attend.

Buenos Aires Mayor Jorge Macri said the first years of life shape language, curiosity, social interaction, play, expression and learning. Education Minister Mercedes Miguel said the policy would place learning and children’s well-being at the center and provide more equal opportunities for their overall development.

Enrollment among four- and five-year-olds is already close to 100% in the city. Attendance among three-year-olds reached 91.2% in 2024, according to the city’s annual household survey. The law’s supporters said access still varies by socioeconomic status and location, and presented compulsory three-year-old preschool as a way to narrow those gaps early.

“

We are committed to always putting children’s learning and well-being at the center. Starting the educational journey at an early age is a key priority, which is why compulsory preschool for three-year-olds is a fundamental step that equitably guarantees better opportunities for comprehensive development throughout life.