Thinking about homeschooling in California? While the Golden State has more rules than some others, thousands of families homeschool successfully here every year. According to HSLDA’s California homeschool guide, you have several legal options to educate your children at home.
California doesn’t actually use the word “homeschool” in its laws. Instead, families meet education requirements through several different paths. This guide walks you through each option so you can choose what works best for your family.
California Homeschool Options at a Glance
| Option | Best For | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Private School Affidavit (PSA) | Maximum independence | File PSA annually |
| Private School Satellite (PSP) | Some oversight preferred | Enroll in umbrella school |
| Public Charter School | Free curriculum wanted | Follow charter requirements |
| Private Tutor | Credential available | CA teaching credential |
Bottom line: Most independent homeschool families file a PSA. It gives you the most freedom while meeting California law.
Option 1: Private School Affidavit (PSA)
The PSA is the most popular choice for California homeschoolers who want independence. You’re basically creating a small private school with just your kids.
What Is a PSA?
The Private School Affidavit is a simple form you file with the California Department of Education. It tells the state you operate a private school. This includes home-based private schools.
Filing a PSA is NOT asking for permission. The state doesn’t approve or supervise your school. It’s just how the state counts how many kids are in school statewide. You’re informing them, not requesting approval.
When and How to File
The official filing window is October 1-15 each year. But the system is open from August 1 through June 30. So you can file whenever you need to.
To file your PSA:
- Go to the CDE Private School Affidavit page
- Find the Private School Affidavit section
- Fill out the online form
- Submit electronically
The form asks for basic info: school name, address, grade levels, number of students. That’s about it. Most families complete it in under 15 minutes.
PSA Requirements
Once you file a PSA, you must:
- Keep attendance records: Track which days you do school
- Teach required subjects: Cover the same subjects public schools teach
- Have English instruction: English must be the main language
- File annually: Renew your PSA each year between October 1-15
Required Subjects
California private schools must offer instruction in these areas:
- English (reading, writing, spelling, grammar)
- Math
- Social studies (including US history and government)
- Science
- Visual and performing arts
- Health
- Physical education
How you teach these is up to you. No specific curriculum is required. You can use textbooks, online programs, hands-on projects, or any combination that works for your family.
What the PSA Does NOT Require
- No teacher credentials needed
- No standardized testing
- No curriculum approval
- No home visits or inspections
- No annual reviews or evaluations
- No minimum hours or days
Option 2: Private School Satellite Program (PSP)
A PSP (also called an umbrella school) files the PSA for you. Your child enrolls in their program but learns at home.
How PSPs Work
The PSP handles the legal paperwork. You handle the teaching. Many PSPs offer:
- Record keeping help
- Curriculum guidance
- Transcript services for high schoolers
- Support from experienced homeschoolers
- Access to group activities
Who Should Choose a PSP?
Consider a PSP if you:
- Want help with paperwork and records
- Like having an advisor to ask questions
- Need official transcripts for high school
- Feel nervous about going fully independent
- Want built-in accountability
PSPs charge fees, usually $100-500 per year per family. Some offer more services for higher fees.
Option 3: Public Charter School
Some families homeschool through public charter schools. The charter provides curriculum and oversight. You teach at home.
Pros of Charter Homeschooling
- Free curriculum and materials
- Access to enrichment funds (often $2,000+ per year)
- Professional teachers available for support
- No paperwork hassles
- Sports and activities access
Cons of Charter Homeschooling
- Less curriculum freedom (must use approved materials)
- Regular check-ins with teachers
- Must follow school calendar
- Required testing
- Technically counts as public school, not homeschool
This option works well if you want free materials and don’t mind oversight.
Option 4: Private Tutor
If you have a California teaching credential, you can homeschool under the private tutor exemption. The tutor must:
- Hold a valid CA teaching credential
- Teach required subjects
- Provide at least 3 hours of instruction per day
- Teach for 175 days per year
Most families don’t use this option unless they already have a credential. The requirements are more strict than the PSA option.
How to Homeschool in California: Step by Step
Step 1: Choose Your Legal Option
Decide which path fits your family:
- Want full control? File a PSA
- Want some support? Join a PSP
- Want free curriculum? Consider a charter
Most independent homeschoolers choose the PSA. It offers the most flexibility with minimal paperwork.
Step 2: Withdraw from Current School
If your child is in school now, withdraw them properly. Send a written notice to the school. Include:
- Child’s name and grade
- Last day of attendance
- Statement that you’re starting a home education program
- Your signature
Keep a copy for your records. Request any transcripts or records you might need.
Step 3: File Your PSA (If Using That Option)
Go to cde.ca.gov and complete the Private School Affidavit. You’ll need to:
- Create a school name (anything you like)
- Enter your home address as school address
- List grades you’ll teach
- Enter number of students
File between August 1 and October 15 for the current year. File by October 15 to be in the state directory. Save your confirmation number.
Step 4: Pick Your Curriculum
You have complete freedom here. Options include:
- Boxed curriculum: Complete programs like Sonlight, Abeka, or BJU Press
- Online schools: Time4Learning, Power Homeschool, and more
- Mix and match: Different programs for each subject
- Free options: Khan Academy, Easy Peasy, library books
- Unit studies: Theme-based learning that covers multiple subjects
- Unschooling: Child-led, interest-based learning
Take your time exploring options. Many California families try several approaches before finding their groove.
Step 5: Set Up Record Keeping
Keep attendance records showing dates of instruction. Many families also save:
- Samples of student work
- List of books and materials used
- Grades or progress notes
- High school transcripts
- Photos of projects and activities
Step 6: Connect with Other Homeschoolers
California has a huge homeschool community. Find:
- Local support groups
- Co-ops for group classes
- Park days and field trips
- Sports leagues and activities
- Facebook groups for your county
Compulsory Education Ages
California requires education for children ages 6-18. Your child must be in school (including homeschool) if they turn 6 before September 1 of the school year.
Five-year-olds and preschoolers don’t need to be listed on your PSA. You can teach them informally without any paperwork.
California Homeschool High School
High school homeschooling in California works well. Here’s what you need to know.
Credits and Courses
You decide what courses your student takes. Many families follow UC a-g requirements if college is the goal:
- 4 years English
- 3 years math (through Algebra II)
- 2 years history/social science
- 2 years lab science
- 2 years foreign language
- 1 year visual/performing arts
- 1 year elective
Transcripts
As a private school, you create your own transcripts. Include:
- Course names and descriptions
- Grades earned
- Credits (usually 5 credits per semester course)
- GPA calculation
- Graduation date
Many PSPs provide transcript services if you prefer help. Templates are also available online.
Graduation
You decide when your student graduates. Issue your own diploma. It’s legally valid. California colleges accept homeschool diplomas. You can purchase nice diploma paper or design your own certificate.
Testing in California
Private schools (including PSA homeschools) are NOT required to do standardized testing. This is different from public schools.
However, many families choose to test anyway. Reasons include:
- Checking progress against grade level
- Identifying gaps
- Practice for college entrance exams
- Satisfying relatives who wonder “is it working?”
- Portfolio building for college applications
Popular tests include CAT, Iowa, and Stanford Achievement Test. You can buy and administer these yourself.
Special Situations
Special Needs
You can homeschool special needs children through any option. PSA homeschools have full flexibility to customize. You won’t have an IEP, but you can create your own learning plan tailored to your child’s needs.
Some charter programs offer special needs services. Ask about accommodations if you go that route. Many families find homeschooling allows them to better meet their special needs child’s requirements.
Moving to California
New to the state? File a PSA once you arrive. You can file any time the system is open (August 1 – June 30). No transfer paperwork from your old state is needed.
Moving Away from California
Check your new state’s laws before moving. Some states want notification on arrival. Keep your California records in case the new state asks for them.
California Homeschool Resources
State Organizations
- HSLDA California: Legal requirements, support, and member resources
- Homeschool Association of California (HSC): Support and information for CA homeschoolers
- California Homeschool Network (CHN): Advocacy and resources
- California Department of Education: Official state info and PSA filing
Finding Local Groups
California has hundreds of homeschool groups. Search for:
- Facebook groups for your county
- Local library homeschool programs
- Church-based support groups
- Secular homeschool groups
- HSC local chapters
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a teaching credential to homeschool in California?
No. If you file a PSA or use a PSP, no credential is needed. Only the private tutor option requires a credential.
How much does it cost to homeschool in California?
Filing the PSA is free. Curriculum costs vary from free (using Khan Academy and library books) to several thousand dollars for premium programs. Most families spend $300-1000 per student per year.
Can California homeschoolers play public school sports?
Generally no. California doesn’t have a “Tim Tebow law” requiring public schools to let homeschoolers participate. Some districts make exceptions. Many homeschoolers join private leagues or community sports instead.
Is homeschooling legal in California?
Yes! California families have homeschooled legally for decades. The PSA option has been used since 1953. Courts have upheld the right to homeschool through private school exemptions.
What if the school district questions my homeschool?
If you’ve filed a PSA, you’re legal. Show them your PSA confirmation number. Organizations like HSC and CHN can help if you face challenges.
Getting Started Today
California homeschooling has more paperwork than some states, but it’s very doable. Thousands of families successfully homeschool here.
Your action steps:
- Decide your legal option (PSA is most popular)
- Withdraw from current school if needed
- File your PSA at cde.ca.gov
- Choose curriculum that fits your family
- Set up simple record keeping
- Connect with local homeschool groups
- Start teaching!
The California homeschool community is welcoming. You’ll find support groups, co-ops, and activities throughout the state. Welcome to your homeschool journey!
Related State Guides
Exploring homeschooling options in other states? Check out our comprehensive guides:
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