Registering a child for school in Alberta: age, documents and where to sign up

Who can start Kindergarten in Alberta, how and when to register, the documents schools ask for and the official page.

Who can start and when

Children can start Kindergarten at 4 years 8 months as of August 31. Kindergarten is optional.

How to register

Contact your local school board or independent early childhood services (ECS) operator about programs and enrolment.

Documents to bring

Proof of legal name and age (Alberta or Canadian birth certificate, passport, citizenship or permanent resident documents or a Certificate of Indian Status) and proof of address in the parent's name (bank statement, driver's licence, utility bill, property tax assessment or lease). Per Calgary Board of Education and Edmonton Public Schools; boards differ, and a child may start Kindergarten if they turn five by December 31 (Calgary).

Official page: registering for school ↗

Dates and documents vary by school board or division, and the statements above were read on 2026-11-14: confirm with your school. General information, not legal advice. If you are new to Canada, ask the school about language assessment and settlement services.

Guides for this province