What is DepEd Order No. 015, s. 2025?
In response to parents and school administrators seeking clarity on the appropriate age for Kindergarten, the Department of Education has released updated guidelines, especially for children born between November 1 and December 31.

1. What is the new Kinder cut-off age?
Children must be 5 years old on or before October 31 of the school year to qualify for Kindergarten.

2. What if the child turns 5 between November 1 and December 31?
The child may still be admitted if one of the following provisions is met:

Provision 1
The child has completed 1 school year of the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program from a:

• Public or private Child Development Center (CDC)

• Learning center with official permit or recognition
  Must submit: Certificate of Completion or Certificate of Attendance

Provision 2
- The child must undergo the Philippine Early Childhood Development (ECD) Checklist Assessment, administered by the school.
- The result will determine Kinder eligibility and will become part of the child's school record.

Question: Can a child be admitted without meeting any of the provisions?
No. At least one of the two provisions must be satisfied for children with birthdays from November 1 to December 31.

Why implement this policy?

• Ensure that learners are ready for Kindergarten

• Maintain the quality of early childhood education

• Promote a fair and inclusive admission process

For full details, please refer to DepEd Order No. 015, s. 2025