Documents to enroll your children
Enroll online or at your assigned school: OCPS (Orange), Osceola, Seminole or Lake.
The school cannot require your child’s Social Security number or ask about the family’s immigration status as a condition of enrollment.
If your child doesn’t speak English
Schools have ESOL programs (English for speakers of other languages). Your child learns English while continuing their classes, and you have the right to an interpreter for teacher meetings.
VPK: free pre-K
Florida offers free VPK to every 4-year-old living in the state (they must turn 4 by September 1). Get the certificate of eligibility at floridaearlylearning.com, then choose a participating school or daycare.
School meals and buses
Many Orange and Osceola schools serve free breakfast and lunch to all students. At the others, apply for free or reduced-price meals based on income. The school bus is free if you live far from the school.
English and education for adults
- Libraries: the Orange County Library System offers free English, citizenship and computer classes.
- Adult education: school district technical colleges offer ESOL and GED at very low cost.
- Colleges: Valencia College and Seminole State have English programs and short technical programs.
Florida changed tuition rules for students without immigration status in 2025. Before enrolling in a college or university, ask the admissions office how the rules apply to you.
This guide is informational and is not a substitute for advice from a lawyer or other professional. Laws and requirements change — always confirm with the official source. See something out of date? Email us at hola@soyorlando.com.