How to homeschool in Colorado
The rules for 2026–27 in plain words: what to send, when, what to teach and what to keep.
✓ Checked against Colorado law on Oct 30, 2026 · See what changed
What changed
Nothing since we began checking Colorado’s own pages every week in October 2026.
The usual way: Under the homeschool law. Your notice each year, and tests in grades 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11.
- Ages
- 6 to 17
- Notice
- Each year
- Tests
- Grades 3, 5, 7, 9, 11
- Set time
- 172 days
What to do
- Notice of intent to a school district14 days before you start, then each year
- A standardized test, or an evaluation by a qualified person; results to the district you notified (or a Colorado private school)in Grades 3, 5, 7, 9, 11
- Teach the subjects belowYou can teach, with no set qualifications. 172 days a year, 4 hours a day.
- Keep attendance; test or evaluation results; immunization recordsWhat Colorado asks you to keep.
Subjects to teach
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
- Math
- History
- Civics
- Literature
- Science
- The U.S. Constitution
Other legal ways
With an independent school
Enroll in an independent school that oversees your homeschool.
You can teach as your school asks. Your independent school sets the days, subjects and tests.
- Enroll with your independent school (Before you start, then each year)
With a licensed teacher
Taught by a Colorado-licensed teacher.
Taught by a Colorado-licensed teacher. With a licensed teacher, nothing more is set: no notice or tests.
Sources: ed.cde.state.co.us, ed.cde.state.co.us
This is a plain summary, not legal advice. Laws change; check with your state or district if you’re unsure. Also see California, Connecticut, or all 50 states + DC.