California Homeschool Requirements
California offers five legal options for homeschooling, each with different requirements and levels of oversight.
California Quick Facts
- • Five legal options available for homeschooling
- • Most popular: File as private school or enroll in PSP
- • Annual private school affidavit required (if filing as private school)
- • Must teach required subjects in English
- • No testing requirements (except for PSPs)
Option 1: Private School Affidavit (Most Popular)
RECOMMENDEDFile an annual Private School Affidavit (PSA) with the California Department of Education, essentially declaring your home as a private school.
Requirements:
- • File PSA between October 1 - 15 each year
- • Teach required subjects in English
- • Keep attendance records (minimum 175 days)
- • Maintain immunization records
- • No teaching credential required
- • No testing or curriculum approval required
Option 2: Private School Satellite Program (PSP)
Enroll with an existing private school that offers Independent Study Programs (ISPs) for homeschoolers.
Requirements:
- • Enroll in a private PSP (often costs $500-2,000/year)
- • PSP handles legal compliance
- • Some PSPs require standardized testing
- • PSP provides record keeping and support
- • Curriculum often provided or approved by PSP
Option 3: Credentialed Tutor
Hire a California credentialed teacher to tutor your child for at least 3 hours per day.
Requirements:
- • Tutor must hold valid CA teaching credential
- • Minimum 3 hours daily instruction
- • Can be expensive ($50-100+/hour)
- • Less common due to cost
Option 4: Public School Independent Study
Enroll in your local public school district's independent study program.
Requirements:
- • Follow district curriculum requirements
- • Regular meetings with supervising teacher
- • Submit assignments for grading
- • Free option but less flexibility
- • Must follow public school testing requirements
Option 5: Charter School
Enroll in a public charter school with independent study options.
Requirements:
- • Varies by charter school
- • Often provides curriculum stipend
- • Regular progress meetings
- • Must follow charter requirements
- • Free but less autonomy than private school option
English Language Arts
Reading, writing, grammar
Mathematics
Arithmetic, algebra, geometry
Social Sciences
History, geography, civics
Science
Biology, physical science, earth science
Visual & Performing Arts
Art, music, drama, dance
Health
Physical education, health education
File Private School Affidavit
Between October 1-15, file the PSA with the California Department of Education. This can be done online at:
California PSA Filing PortalChoose Your School Name
Select a name for your private school (can be as simple as "[Last Name] Academy" or "[Child's Name] Home School"). This is just for paperwork.
Set Up Record Keeping System
Create a system to track attendance (175 days minimum) and keep immunization records. Many families use simple calendars or homeschool planners.
Start Homeschooling!
Choose your curriculum and begin instruction. Remember to teach in English and cover the required subjects throughout the year.
High School & Graduation
Parents can issue diplomas. For college admission, California homeschoolers typically provide:
- • Parent-created transcripts
- • SAT/ACT scores
- • Portfolio of work
- • California Proficiency Exam (optional)
- • Community college courses (concurrent enrollment)
Special Education
Children with special needs can be homeschooled. Once withdrawn, parents are not entitled to public school IEP services but can access private therapies, regional centers, and homeschool support groups specializing in special needs.
Sports & Activities
California does not require public schools to allow homeschoolers to participate in athletics. However, many homeschool co-ops, private leagues, and community programs offer sports and activities.
Connect with other California homeschool families for support, co-ops, and activities.
Find California GroupsBrowse California Field TripsWhat happens if I miss the October 1-15 filing deadline?
You can file late, but it's technically non-compliant. File as soon as possible and continue with the next year's filing. Some families choose to enroll in a PSP mid-year if needed.
Do I need to have my curriculum approved?
No, if you file as a private school (Option 1), there is no curriculum approval process. You have complete freedom to choose your educational materials.
Can the state inspect my homeschool?
California does not routinely inspect private homeschools. However, if there's a truancy complaint, you may need to show proof of filing your PSA and attendance records.
Should I choose a PSP or file my own affidavit?
Filing your own PSA (Option 1) gives maximum flexibility and is free. PSPs (Option 2) provide support, accountability, and record keeping but cost money. Choose based on your need for support versus autonomy.
Ready to Start Homeschooling in California?
Join thousands of California homeschool families on Homeschool Connect