Extension 4-H youth development programs are open to all youth who are residents of Kansas between the date of their 7th birthday through December 31, of the year in which they turn 19. Some counties/districts may permit limited involvement for 5 and 6 year olds, according to local policy. Those young men and young women whose 19th birthday comes before January 1 of the 4-H year (October 1 to September 30 of the following calendar year) for which enrollment is made are ineligible to compete in county, state or national contests, awards, or recognition programs. Extension 4-H youth programs and materials are available without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex or disability.

Participating in some parts of the 4-H program may require enrollment or ownership deadlines. Those deadlines are to ensure that exhibits or presentations reflect knowledge and skills gained in 4-H project experience. They are not to keep boy and girls from joining and participating in other parts of 4-H at any time during the year. For example, ownership of and enrollment in a livestock project may be required by a certain date in order to exhibit at a fair/exposition/show; thus allowing sufficient time to demonstrate the acquisition of knowledge and master of skills in order to prepare an exhibit for evaluation. Entry dates may be set for Club Days or other activities, not only as a reasonable means for program management but to also assure sufficient time for preparation and master of subject matter by participants.