Homeschooling in District of Columbia, planned for you
Start with a clear view of District of Columbia's notice, subject, attendance, assessment, and recordkeeping rules—then turn them into a homeschool year that works for your family.
Last reviewed August 5, 2026. This guide is informational, not legal advice; verify requirements with District of Columbia and your local district before acting.
District of Columbia requirements at a glance
This is the parent-led route most families use. If you enroll through an umbrella, private school, tutor, or public program, that option may have different rules.
- File the OSSE home-school notification form 15 days before beginning and annually thereafter.
- Teach language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education.
- Provide regular, thorough instruction during the period public schools are in session.
- No routine annual test is required, but maintain a portfolio for at least one year; OSSE may review it when there is a reasonable basis for concern.
- The parent or guardian must hold a high-school diploma or GED, or may request a waiver.
Filing dates to put on your calendar
- File 15 days before starting and by August 15 each year after that.
Governing authority: District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, Title 5-E, Chapter 52. Local procedures and alternative legal options can add detail.
How Kuraplan helps you meet them
Turn the rules into a workable week, keep the evidence you need, and spend less Sunday night building materials from scratch.
Plans aligned to your state
Build lessons around your child's grade, subject, and the requirements your state expects you to cover.
Print-ready worksheets
Make practice sheets and answer keys for the exact skill each child is working on, ready to print or reuse.
Records from completed work
Keep digital worksheet responses together so progress reports, portfolios, and end-of-year reviews are easier to prepare.
One lesson. All your kids.
$49/yr flat — no per-child fees
Start with one family lesson, then adjust the reading level, practice, and response format for each child without rebuilding the whole day.
District of Columbia homeschool FAQ
The short version of the questions parents ask before filing, choosing subjects, and setting the school calendar.
Is homeschooling legal in District of Columbia?
Yes. Homeschooling is legal in District of Columbia when a family follows the applicable compulsory-education rules. File the OSSE home-school notification form 15 days before beginning and annually thereafter. Requirements can change, so verify your plan with the relevant state agency or local district before you begin.
Do I need to notify the state or district to homeschool in District of Columbia?
File the OSSE home-school notification form 15 days before beginning and annually thereafter.
What subjects are required for homeschoolers in District of Columbia?
Teach language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education.
How many homeschool days or hours are required in District of Columbia?
Provide regular, thorough instruction during the period public schools are in session.
Does District of Columbia require homeschool testing or a portfolio?
No routine annual test is required, but maintain a portfolio for at least one year; OSSE may review it when there is a reasonable basis for concern.
Informational, not legal advice. Laws, agency forms, and local procedures can change. Verify current requirements with the relevant District of Columbia agency and your local district.
Your District of Columbia homeschool year, in one place
Plan lessons, make printables, and keep each child's completed work organized for the records your family chooses—or needs—to keep.
Plan with Kuraplan