Homeschooling in District Of Columbia
Capital education choices: Understanding the OSSE requirements for District families.
Homeschooling in Washington, D.C., is regulated by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). It is a notification-based state with moderate regulation, requiring annual notice and specific record-keeping, but no mandatory standardized testing for students.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
8
required
Notification
Yes
annual (Aug 15 continuation)
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Parents must have a High School Diploma or GED.
- Notification must be filed 15 days before starting.
- Portfolios must be kept for review upon request.
- No mandatory standardized testing.
Legal Framework
Homeschooling is a statutory checkbox in D.C. Municipal Regulations (Title 5, Chapter 52).
Required Subjects
Instruction must be thorough and regular.
Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Art
Music
Health
Physical Education
Filing Requirements
What to file
Notification of Intent to Homeschool + Notification of Homeschool Continuation
When
Initial: 15 BUSINESS DAYS prior to starting. Annual: August 15 for continuation.
Where
Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE)
How to submit
Online via OSSE or email: OSSE.Homeschool@dc.gov
What to include
- • Child info
- • Parent qualifications
- • Curriculum overview
Parent must have HS DIPLOMA or GED (waiver possible via petition). 8 subjects required (incl Art, Music, Health, PE). Portfolio REQUIRED - must be available upon OSSE request (keep 1 year). Discontinuation notice required 15 bus days before stopping. Immunization EXEMPT for homeschoolers unless participating in public school activities. Optional free PARCC testing available. OSSE does NOT approve curriculum. Parent issues diploma.
Testing Requirements
Required: No
Frequency: N/A
Grades: N/A
None required. Optional free access to state tests (PARCC) is available.
How to Get Started
- 1
Submit Notification of Intent
File the official form with OSSE.
- •Complete the Notification of Intent to Homeschool form.
- •Submit at least 15 business days before starting.
Tip: You can submit online via the OSSE system or by email.15 days prior to start
- 2
Withdraw from School
If currently enrolled, formally withdraw your child.
- •Notify the current school in writing.
- •Wait for OSSE approval/acknowledgment before stopping attendance to avoid truancy.
Tip: OSSE will provide a verification letter once processed.After filing Notice of Intent
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓No mandatory testing
- ✓Free access to AP exams and state testing if desired
- ✓Clear, single administrative process
Cons
- •Annual paperwork required by Aug 15
- •Subject list is extensive (includes Music/Art/PE)
- •OSSE reserves right to request portfolio review
Questions about homeschooling in District Of Columbia
Does my child have to take standardized tests?
No. Standardized testing is not required for homeschoolers in D.C. You may choose to have your child participate in state testing for free if you wish.
Do I need a teaching degree?
No, but you must have a High School Diploma or GED. If you do not, you must petition OSSE for a waiver.
What if I miss the August 15 deadline?
Contact OSSE immediately. Failure to file can lead to your child being marked truant if they are not enrolled in school.
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Last updated: 2025-12-17 · DC homeschool law guide