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California homeschool letter of intent

Some states require a notice, affidavit, private-school enrollment step, or other paperwork before or soon after homeschooling begins. This page explains the current California notice picture in plain English and gives a safe template framework without pretending every family needs the same form.

Plain-English note: this is a parent guide, not legal advice. Use the official source links at the bottom of the page before a deadline or filing decision.

Is a letter or notice required?

Yes, in most common homeschool setups. Families using the home-based private school route file a Private School Affidavit each year, while other legal options have different paperwork.

Who receives it?

Usually the California Department of Education for the private school affidavit route; families withdrawing from public school may also need to notify the local school.

When is it due?

For the private school affidavit route, file annually between October 1 and October 15. If starting later, families should review the current CDE instructions for late filing.

What to include if notice is required

  1. 1Parent or guardian name and contact information.
  2. 2Student name and age or birth date, if the state or district form asks for it.
  3. 3A clear statement that you are beginning or continuing a homeschool program in California.
  4. 4Any required subjects, attendance, or instruction assurances specifically requested by California or your local district.
  5. 5Your signature and the date sent. Keep a copy and proof of delivery.

Parent-safe template wording

Template starter: “I am notifying you that I intend to homeschool my child in accordance with California homeschool requirements. I will provide home instruction and maintain any records required by state law.” Customize this to match the official form or local instruction before sending.

Free printables

Download the homeschool starter kit

Print these before you start: a state startup checklist, letter-of-intent template, attendance tracker, and high-school transcript template.

View all downloads

These printables are general planning tools, not legal advice. Always verify the current rule on your state page and official source links before filing deadlines.

Frequently asked questions

Where do I send a California homeschool letter of intent?

Usually the California Department of Education for the private school affidavit route; families withdrawing from public school may also need to notify the local school.

What is the California homeschool notification deadline?

For the private school affidavit route, file annually between October 1 and October 15. If starting later, families should review the current CDE instructions for late filing.

Should I keep a copy?

Yes. Even when California paperwork is light, keep a dated copy of anything you send plus proof of delivery or school withdrawal confirmation.

Check the full requirement list before sending anything

Notice is only one part of starting homeschool. Review subjects, records, testing, and age requirements for California.

California homeschool requirements