Homeschooling in California
Three paths: Total freedom, community support, or state funding
California offers diverse options for homeschooling, ranging from complete independence to fully state-funded programs. Parents can choose the path that best fits their philosophy and financial needs.
In our Library: Homeschooling in California: Complete Guide for 2026 (PSA, PSP, Charter)
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
7
required
Notification
Yes
annual
Key Requirements at a Glance
- PSA: Maximum freedom, no funding, file annually in October
- PSP: Administrative support, tuition costs, community
- Charter: State funding (~$2k+), teacher oversight, mandatory testing
Legal Framework
California Education Code sections 33190 and 48222 govern private schools (PSA/PSP). Charter schools operate under public school laws.
Find a homeschool co-op in California
18 homeschool co-ops in California, listed by town with ages, meeting days and fees. Each one checked against its own website and dated, so you can see how current it is.
Homeschool Co-ops in CaliforniaWaldorf schools and kindergartens in California
The Waldorf Map lists 52 schools, 12 kindergartens and playgroups, 2 co-ops and homeschool groups, and 1 class or course in California, with phone numbers, websites and a map. If you are homeschooling, many run parent-and-child groups, open mornings and fairs that families outside the school are welcome at.
- Berkeley Rose Waldorf School, Oakland
- Blossom Waldorf Garden, San Rafael
- Camellia Waldorf School, Sacramento
- Central Coast Waldorf School, Los Osos
Required Subjects
Instruction must be in English and cover these branches of study.
English
Mathematics
Social Sciences
Science
Fine Arts
Health
Physical Education
Filing Requirements
What to file
Private School Affidavit (PSA)
When
October 1 - October 15 (statutory filing period). System opens August 1.
Where
California Department of Education (CDE)
How to submit
Online via CDE website
What to include
- • School name
- • Address
- • Enrollment
- • Teacher qualifications
This establishes your home as a legal private school. Keep copy of PSA, attendance records, faculty qualifications, and course of study on file.
Testing Requirements
Required: No
Frequency: N/A
Grades: N/A
No standardized testing required.
How to Get Started
- 1
File the Affidavit
Submit the Private School Affidavit online to the California Department of Education (CDE).
- •Go to the CDE website (system opens Aug 1)
- •Complete the form between Oct 1 and Oct 15
- •Print and keep a copy for your records
Tip: If starting mid-year, file immediately Do not file if enrolled in a PSP or CharterOct 1 - Oct 15 (Annually)
- 2
Establish Records
You must keep specific records on file at your 'school' (home).
- •Create an attendance register
- •Write a course of study
- •Keep faculty qualifications (your resume)
Tip: These records are rarely checked, but required by law
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Total autonomy
- ✓Privacy
- ✓No testing
Cons
- •No state funding
- •Responsible for all admin/records
Help with the cost in California
| Program | Amount | Who qualifies | Official site |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Charter School Independent StudyISP FundingStudents are PUBLIC SCHOOL students, not homeschoolers. Must take state standardized tests (CAASPP). Monthly meetings with credentialed teacher required. Cannot opt out of curriculum requirements. | ~$2,000 - $3,000 per student (varies by school) | All California students. Must apply and be accepted (lotteries common). | Various (each charter has own application) |
Amounts as this guide lists them, last reviewed 2025-12-17. The official site has this year's figure.
Homeschool Funding by US State in 2026: ESAs, Tax Credits, and Charter Programs
Questions about homeschooling in California
Can I use PSA if I work full time?
Yes, as long as you provide the required instruction. There are no specific hours of the day mandated.
Do I need a teaching credential for PSA?
No. You only need to be 'capable of teaching'.
Can I switch from Charter to PSA mid-year?
Yes. You would withdraw from the charter and immediately file the PSA.
Get California’s homeschool checklist, and hear by email when our California page changes
Leave your email and you’ll get the checklist link straight away. You’ll also be on the list for California deadline reminders and news when our California page changes. You can stop the emails any time.
Learning at home?
Starpath’s Waldorf-inspired lessons cover grades 1 to 3, and grade 4 is being added. Sophie, a Waldorf class teacher, wrote the stories, verses and activities for each day. 14 days for $7, then $47 a month. Cancel before the trial ends and you aren't charged again.
Free California paperwork tools
Generate your California notice of intent letter in two minutes, and get an email before every filing deadline. Free, no account needed, works with any curriculum.
Want the whole year handled? See Starpath Records
Read more
Last updated: 2025-12-17 · CA homeschool law guide