A practical, parent-friendly guide to homeschooling in Colorado
Homeschooling in Colorado is a clear path with just a few important steps—and plenty of room for families to shape learning their own way. With annual paperwork, some recordkeeping, and periodic assessments, the process may seem a bit more structured than in some states, but don’t worry: once you get started, it’s entirely doable. This guide will walk you through what’s required and how to make homeschooling in Colorado a success.
How Do I Start Homeschooling in Colorado?
To legally homeschool in Colorado, you need to file a document called a letter of intent with the Colorado school district of your choice. This lets the district know that you’ll be educating your child at home.
Here’s what to do:
Download the letter of intent form from your chosen school district.
Fill it out with the name, age, place of residence, and number of attendance hours for each child.
Submit it at least 14 days before you begin homeschooling. Returning homeschoolers typically file by August 15 each year.
You can mail, hand-deliver, or sometimes email the form—check with your district for their preferred method. Keep a copy for your own records. Once filed, your child is exempt from attending public school.
Colorado Homeschool Requirements
Submit a yearly letter of intent
Teach a minimum of 172 instructional days per year
Provide an average of four hours of instruction per day
Cover all required subjects
Complete assessments in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11
Maintain records of attendance, academic work, and assessments
Required Subjects
Colorado requires instruction in:
Reading, writing, and speaking (English/Language Arts)
Mathematics
History
Civics
Literature
Science
The U.S. Constitution and the Colorado Constitution
You’re free to choose how to teach these topics—through textbooks, online resources, field trips, or hands-on activities. Many families also include art, PE, or health for a well-rounded education.
Recordkeeping Requirements
You don’t need to submit records unless asked, but you must keep:
A log of instructional days and hours
Samples of student work
Records of evaluations or test results
Immunization and health records
High school transcripts, if applicable
Testing and Evaluations
Students must be assessed in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. You can choose to:
Take a nationally standardized achievement test (score above 13th percentile), or
Get an evaluation from a qualified individual (licensed teacher, psychologist, or person with an advanced degree in education)
Submit results to the school district where you filed your letter of intent, or to an independent/parochial school in Colorado (inform the district if you choose the latter).
When to Start
Compulsory education starts at age 6 (by August 1), but home instruction can begin at age 7 if the affidavit is filed during the school year your child turns six. Homeschooling is required until age 17 or graduation.
Cost of Homeschooling in Colorado
Colorado does not offer stipends or ESAs for homeschoolers. Many families keep costs low by:
Using free or low-cost curriculum materials
Joining local co-ops
Taking advantage of museum and library programs
Buying secondhand or swapping curriculum
Note: Public online charter schools are available but count as public schooling—not independent homeschooling.
What You’ll Need
A curriculum or learning plan
A consistent learning space
A basic recordkeeping system
A support system of other homeschool families
Tips for a Strong Start
Ease into your routine
Mix traditional academics with field trips and hands-on learning
Stay connected with homeschool groups
Keep good records
If you’re new to homeschooling or want tips from veteran homeschoolers, check out these free resources:
All information is current as of August 2025. This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) for official guidance.
