Homeschooling in Colorado is flexible and accessible. You can choose from three legal pathways to educate your child at home, while following specific state requirements.
Colorado is home to approximately 25,000 homeschooled students, making it one of the active homeschooling communities in the nation (NCES estimates, 2023). Homeschool regulations vary dramatically across the U.S. — 11 states have no requirement to notify the government, while 6 states require curriculum approval, standardized testing, or professional evaluations (HSLDA, 2024).
Colorado homeschool requirements at a glance
In Colorado, you can homeschool in three ways. Each option has different rules and benefits.
Option 1: Home-Based Education Program This is the most popular choice. You file a Notice of Intent with any Colorado school district. You'll follow testing requirements and keep records. You're responsible for meeting state homeschool laws.
Option 2: Independent/Umbrella School Enroll in a Colorado independent school that follows Non-Public School Law. You’ll follow that school's rules instead of filing with a district. Testing may vary; for example, some schools test only in odd years.
Option 3: Licensed Teacher Instruction If you or the instructor has a valid Colorado teaching license, you don't need to file a Notice of Intent or keep records. This option is rare but useful for some families.
Important: Choose one option and stick with it. Filing a Notice of Intent and enrolling in an umbrella school at the same time can create confusion.
How to start homeschooling in Colorado
Notification Requirements Before you start homeschooling, file a Notice of Intent with a Colorado school district at least 14 days in advance. You need to do this every year after that.
What to Include: Just your child’s names, ages, address, and hours of instruction. No need to add extra info—it can lead to misunderstandings.
Where to File: You can file with any Colorado school district, not just your local one. Some families choose districts known for being homeschool-friendly.
Age Considerations: You don’t need to notify the district until your child is 6 years old (by August 1st). Instruction can start at age 7. You can stop filing once your child turns 16.
Superintendent Response: The superintendent will acknowledge your Notice of Intent but can’t approve or deny it. Once you file, your homeschool is legal—no waiting for permission.
Testing requirements
In Colorado, you need to assess your child in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. You have two options:
Option A: Nationally Standardized Achievement Test Use an accepted test (like CAT or ITBS) and score above the 13th percentile. State tests like CMAS don’t count.
Option B: Professional Evaluation Have a qualified person review your child's progress. This can be a licensed teacher, psychologist, or someone with a master’s in education.
Low Scores: If your child scores below the 13th percentile, they must be retested or placed in public or private school. Most homeschooled kids score above grade level.
Umbrella School Alternative: If you’re in an umbrella school, follow their testing schedule, which might mean less frequent testing.
Practical Advice: Many families use tests like CAT or ITBS, which you can order and do at home. Various organizations offer testing services.
Required subjects and instructional time
Colorado requires teaching nine subjects over at least 172 days, averaging 4 hours of instruction each day.
Required Subjects Include:
- Reading, writing, and speaking
- Math
- History
- Civics
- Literature
- Science
- U.S. Constitution
Instructional Time: You can vary the 4-hour daily average throughout the year. If you start mid-year, you can pro-rate the 172 days.
What Counts as Instruction: Colorado has a broad definition. Reading, math practice, educational trips, and hands-on science all count. You have the freedom to choose your curriculum—textbooks, online programs, or your own materials are all fine.
Sports and extracurricular access
Colorado law allows homeschooled students to join public school activities just like enrolled students.
What’s Covered: This includes CHSAA sports, fine arts, and more.
Where to Participate: Generally, at the district where you filed your Notice of Intent. If you’re in an umbrella school, it could be either your school of residence or attendance.
Eligibility Requirements: Your child must meet the same age and behavior requirements as enrolled students. If they were in public school before, they need to meet academic standards.
Fees: Districts can charge up to 150% of the activity fees.
Practical Process: Contact the school’s athletic department early to learn their specific requirements.
High school, graduation & beyond
As a homeschool parent in Colorado, you set your own graduation standards and issue diplomas. There’s no state-recognized homeschool diploma—you create one based on your criteria.
Creating Transcripts: Keep a record of courses, credits, and grades throughout high school. Include course titles, credit hours, and GPA. Clear descriptions can help with college applications.
College Preparation: Colorado colleges accept homeschoolers, typically needing SAT or ACT scores and transcripts. They have processes in place for homeschool admissions.
Dual Enrollment: Community colleges in Colorado welcome homeschool students. High schoolers can earn college credits often at reduced rates or for free.
Career and Technical Education: Some districts offer CTE programs for homeschoolers. Check with your local district for options.
Special situations
Starting Mid-Year: You can withdraw from public school any time. Just file your Notice of Intent 14 days before starting.
Moving to Colorado: If you’re coming from another state, file your Notice of Intent with your chosen district before starting. Previous records help with grade placement but don’t automatically transfer compliance.
Returning to Public School: If your child goes back to public school, the district might use placement testing. Keep good records to help with the right grade placement.
Special Needs: Homeschooled students can access evaluation services through their district. But, for comprehensive services, public school enrollment is usually needed.
Finding community and support
Colorado has a strong homeschool community. Here are some ways to connect:
Statewide Organizations: Christian Home Educators of Colorado (CHEC) offers conferences, an umbrella school, and resources.
Regional Co-ops: Major areas like Denver and Colorado Springs have co-ops for classes and social activities. Even rural areas have support networks.
Testing Resources: Organizations like CHEC provide testing services. Local groups might organize group testing sessions.
Finding Your Community: Look for Facebook groups or check local library bulletin boards. Talking to other homeschool families can help you find good co-ops.
The bottom line
Homeschooling in Colorado is doable. Just remember to file your Notice of Intent 14 days before starting, cover nine subjects, and test in certain grades.
Most families choose the home-based education route, but umbrella schools can simplify testing. The licensed teacher option is available to a few.
Your first step? File that Notice of Intent 14 days before you start. Then, build your curriculum around the required subjects. Colorado’s testing ensures quality while giving you the freedom to teach your way. Plus, your child can join public school sports without losing homeschool independence.
