CALow Regulation

Homeschooling in California

California requires filing a Private School Affidavit annually between October 1 and 15.

California Homeschool Laws & Regulations

California takes a hands-off approach to homeschool regulation. While the state does require some basic paperwork, the overall burden is light. This gives families plenty of room to follow a child-led Montessori approach without jumping through excessive bureaucratic hoops.

To begin homeschooling in California, you must file a notice of intent with the California Department of Education (online) by between october 1 and october 15 annually. File the PSA online through the CDE website between October 1 and October 15 each year.

The state requires instruction in specific subjects including English, Mathematics, Social sciences, Science, Visual and performing arts, Health, Physical education. Our 100% online Montessori Homeschool platform covers all of these through 8,100+ structured daily lessons that integrate practical life, sensorial exploration, language, mathematics, science, geography, and cultural studies — the hallmarks of an authentic Montessori education.

The Montessori approach is a natural fit for homeschooling in California. Rather than rigid textbook learning, children work with hands-on materials at their own pace — developing concentration, independence, and a genuine love of learning. Montessori Homeschool brings this approach into your home with a 100% online platform featuring daily lesson plans, printable materials, parent guides, and built-in compliance tools designed specifically for California families.

California Homeschool Requirements at a Glance

📋Required

Notice of Intent

Private School Affidavit (PSA). Due: Between October 1 and October 15 annually

📅Not Required

Attendance Tracking

No attendance tracking required

📚Required

Required Subjects

English, Mathematics, Social sciences, Science, Visual and performing arts, Health, Physical education

📝Not Required

Quarterly Reports

No quarterly reports required

📊Not Required

Annual Assessment

No annual testing or evaluation required

📁Not Required

Portfolio

No portfolio required

🎓Not Required

Parent Qualification

No parent education requirement — any parent can homeschool

How to Start Homeschooling in California

  1. 1

    File a Private School Affidavit online with the CDE between October 1 and 15

  2. 2

    Provide instruction in the required branches of study

  3. 3

    Keep an attendance register

  4. 4

    Alternatively, use a credentialed tutor or enroll in an independent study program through a charter school

Important Deadlines

  • File Private School Affidavit: Between October 1 and October 15 annually

How Montessori Homeschool Helps California Families

Simple Compliance, Rich Curriculum

  • Automatic attendance logging to meet your state's day requirements
  • Curriculum covers all required subjects and then some
  • Downloadable records if your district ever asks for documentation
  • Daily lesson plans eliminate hours of prep work each week
  • AI-powered parent help for any teaching question

Homeschool Guides for Nearby States

Ready to Homeschool in California?

8,100+ daily Montessori lessons. State compliance tools. Parent guides. Printable materials. Everything you need to homeschool with confidence.