Ready to teach your children at home in the Grand Canyon State? You’ve picked one of the best places in the country to do it. With minimal rules and maximum freedom, this southwestern state makes home education simple.
This guide covers everything you need to start. We’ll walk through the paperwork, required subjects, and helpful programs available to families like yours.
Arizona Homeschool Laws at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal with minimal oversight |
| Notification | File Affidavit of Intent within 30 days |
| Parent Qualifications | None required |
| Subjects Required | Reading, grammar, math, social studies, science |
| Testing | Not required |
| Record Keeping | Not required by law |
| Compulsory Ages | 6 to 16 years old |
Why the Grand Canyon State Is Perfect for Home Education
This southwestern state ranks among the most homeschool-friendly in the nation. Here’s why families love it:
- Low regulation – Just one form to file, no ongoing reports
- No testing – You assess your child’s progress your own way
- No set hours – Create a schedule that fits your family
- No parent qualifications – You don’t need a degree or certification
- ESA funding available – Money to help pay for curriculum
- Sports access – Your child can play on public school teams
Step-by-Step: Starting Home Education
Step 1: File Your Affidavit of Intent
This is your only required paperwork. File a notarized Affidavit of Intent with your County School Superintendent within 30 days of starting to homeschool.
For children already being taught at home before age 6, file within 30 days of their 6th birthday.
The affidavit must include:
- Your name and address
- Your child’s name and age
- Proof of your child’s identity (like a birth certificate)
You only file once. You don’t need to file again each year unless you stop and restart homeschooling.
Step 2: Get the Form
Your County School Superintendent’s office has the affidavit form. You can also find forms through the Arizona Families for Home Education (AFHE) website.
Step 3: Get It Notarized
The affidavit must be notarized. Most banks offer free notary services for customers. UPS stores and shipping centers also have notaries for a small fee.
Step 4: Submit to Your County
Mail or deliver the notarized form to your County School Superintendent. Keep a copy for your records.
Step 5: Choose Curriculum and Start Teaching
That’s it for paperwork! Now pick your curriculum and begin. You have complete freedom in what materials you use and how you teach.
Required Subjects
State law requires instruction in five core areas:
- Reading
- Grammar
- Mathematics
- Social Studies
- Science
You decide how to cover these subjects. Buy a boxed curriculum. Use library books. Join a co-op. Mix and match. The choice is yours.
Many families also teach history, art, music, and physical education. These aren’t required but are easy to add.
No Testing Requirements
Unlike many states, the Grand Canyon State does not require testing. You don’t have to:
- Give standardized tests
- Submit test scores to anyone
- Have your child evaluated
Many families still test to track progress. But it’s your choice, not a legal requirement.
No Record Keeping Requirements
State law doesn’t require you to keep attendance records, grades, or portfolios. However, keeping basic records is smart for:
- College applications later
- Moving to another state
- Your own reference
Simple records like a list of books used, subjects covered, and samples of work are enough for most needs.
Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) Program
The Grand Canyon State offers the ESA program – one of the most generous school choice programs in the country. Here’s what you need to know:
What Is ESA?
ESA provides public funds to pay for educational expenses. This includes curriculum, tutoring, online courses, and more.
How Much?
Funding ranges from about $4,000 to $6,500 per student per year, depending on grade level and needs.
Important Note
If you use ESA funds, you’re not technically a homeschooler under state law. You’re an “ESA student.” This means:
- You don’t file the homeschool affidavit
- You follow ESA program rules instead
- You must document how funds are spent
Many families choose between traditional homeschooling (maximum freedom) and ESA (funding help with more paperwork). Both work well.
Public School Access
Sports and Activities
Under state law, homeschooled students can try out for public school sports teams. Your child must live in the school’s attendance area and meet the same eligibility rules as enrolled students.
Part-Time Enrollment
Some districts allow homeschoolers to take individual classes. This works great for subjects like chemistry labs or band. Contact your local district to ask about their policy.
State Resources
Helpful Organizations
- HSLDA Arizona Page – Legal requirements and support
- Arizona Families for Home Education (AFHE) – Largest state organization
- Arizona Department of Education – Official state information
Local Support
Active homeschool communities thrive across the state:
- Phoenix metro: Dozens of co-ops and support groups
- Tucson: Growing community with diverse options
- Northern region: Groups in Flagstaff and Prescott areas
Special Situations
Leaving Public School
To withdraw your child from public school:
- File your Affidavit of Intent with the county (within 30 days)
- Notify the school office in writing
- Request copies of your child’s records
You can withdraw at any time during the school year.
High School and Graduation
Parents issue diplomas. The state doesn’t provide them for homeschoolers. For college-bound students:
- Create a transcript listing courses and grades
- Have your student take the SAT or ACT
- Keep a portfolio of their best work
- Consider community college dual enrollment
The three state universities (ASU, NAU, U of A) all accept homeschooled students and have specific admission paths.
Moving to the Grand Canyon State
If you’re moving from another state:
- File your Affidavit of Intent within 30 days of starting
- Bring records from your previous state (helpful but not required)
- Connect with local support groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a teaching degree to homeschool?
No. The state has no requirements for parent education or certification. Any parent can legally homeschool their children.
How many hours per day must I teach?
There’s no minimum. The state doesn’t specify hours or days. You create the schedule that works for your family.
Do I have to test my children?
No. Testing is not required. Many families test anyway to track progress, but it’s entirely optional.
Can my homeschooled child play public school sports?
Yes! State law allows homeschoolers to participate in public school sports and activities. Your child must meet eligibility rules like grades and behavior.
Related State Guides
Exploring homeschool laws in other states? See our guides:
- How to Homeschool in Texas – Another freedom-friendly state with no registration
- How to Homeschool in Florida – Simple notice and annual evaluation
- How to Homeschool in New York – Higher regulation with quarterly reports
- How to Homeschool in Washington – Parent qualifications required
Getting Started Today
The Grand Canyon State makes homeschooling simple. One form. Five required subjects. That’s it for legal requirements.
Your next steps: Download the affidavit form, get it notarized, and mail it to your County School Superintendent. Then start exploring curriculum options and connecting with local support groups.
Thousands of families successfully homeschool here. With minimal bureaucracy and maximum flexibility, you can focus on what matters – teaching your children.
For more details, visit the HSLDA Arizona page or Arizona Families for Home Education.
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