UCLA Will Close Early Care Centers in June 2027

Los Angeles families using university childcare must prepare for the closure of campus-run centers.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Child Care

Bold vector editorial illustration of a child's toy block and shoe, representing the impact of childcare center closures. — UCLA will close its campus-run early care and education centers by June 2027, forcing Los Angeles families to find alternative childcare options. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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UCLA will shutter its Early Care and Education centers by June 2027, citing a projected $9.1 million deficit in the program. This decision impacts families currently relying on university-managed care for infants and toddlers in Los Angeles.

Why it matters

The university is terminating these services due to ongoing budget challenges, including a $58 million institutional deficit for the 2025-26 academic year. This change forces families to seek alternative care options as the university moves away from operating these facilities.

Official budget projections show the childcare centers face a $9.1 million deficit by June 2027, exceeding initial estimates of $8.6 million. Operating expenses for the 2026-27 academic year are set at $10.2 million against just $6.2 million in annual tuition revenue.

The players

UCLA

A major public research university in Los Angeles that provides educational, health, and social services to students and the local community.

UC Santa Cruz

A fellow University of California institution that committed $17.5 million in 2024 to expand its own childcare offerings.

The details

The childcare centers currently receive funding through a mix of parent tuition, student fees, state subsidies, and university funds. Monthly tuition costs for the centers are $3,300 for infants and $3,000 for toddlers. While parents previously successfully protested a reduction in food and diaper services, the university central account deficit of $58 million has led to the scheduled closure.

2025-26 academic year: UCLA experienced a $58 million budget deficit.
June 2027: UCLA childcare centers are scheduled to close.

Health Landscape

The closure of these centers marks a departure from the University of California childcare expansion policy seen at campuses like UC Santa Cruz. This trend highlights the financial instability facing on-campus social services despite the established goal of supporting student-parents.

Families affected by this closure should begin reviewing alternative care options for their infants and toddlers now, as demand for high-quality childcare remains high in the Los Angeles area. It is worth discussing care-transition timelines and potential support resources with your physician or community advocates.

The takeaway

The scheduled closure of UCLA's childcare centers reflects a broader financial strain on campus services. Families should monitor university communications for updates on final operation dates and transition support as the June 2027 deadline approaches.