Homeschooling in Colorado
Choose between state oversight or private umbrella schools
Colorado offers three distinct ways to homeschool. Most families choose between filing a Notice of Intent (NOI) with a school district or enrolling in an Independent School (Umbrella School).
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
9
required
Notification
Yes
annual
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Option 1: File NOI 14 days before starting
- Option 1: Test in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, 11
- Option 2: Join an Umbrella School for privacy
- Must teach 172 days/year (average 4 hours/day)
Legal Framework
Colorado Revised Statutes 22-33-104.5 (Home-based Education).
Required Subjects
Curriculum choice is up to the parent.
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Mathematics
History
Civics
Literature
Science
Constitution (US)
Filing Requirements
What to file
Notice of Intent (NOI)
When
14 days BEFORE starting homeschool. Then re-file annually (typically Aug/Sept).
Where
Any school district in Colorado (usually your local one)
How to submit
Letter or district form
What to include
- • Child's name
- • Age
- • Residence address
- • Hours of attendance planned
4 hrs/day avg for 172 days/year. Testing in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 - composite score > 13th percentile OR evaluation by qualified person. MUST SUBMIT test results to the district where you filed NOI. **Sports access GUARANTEED** per statute 22-32-116.5.
Testing Requirements
Required: Yes
Frequency: Specific Grades
Grades: 3, 5, 7, 9, 11
Must take a nationally standardized test or have an academic evaluation.
How to Get Started
- 1
File Notice of Intent (NOI)
Submit a written notice to a school district in Colorado (usually your local one).
- •Include child's name, age, residence, and hours of attendance
- •Submit 14 days BEFORE starting to homeschool
- •Re-submit annually
Tip: Send via Certified Mail You can file with ANY district in the state, not just your local one14 days prior to start (Annually)
- 2
Establish Records
Set up your attendance and immunization records.
- •Create an attendance log (172 days required)
- •Keep immunization records on file
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Free
- ✓No third-party oversight
- ✓Access to public school sports
Cons
- •Mandatory state reporting
- •Mandatory testing submission
Sports & Activities
**Statute 22-32-116.5**: Homeschoolers (Option 1 & 2) have guaranteed access to participate in public school sports and extracurricular activities.
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Last updated: 2025-12-17 · CO homeschool law guide