District of Columbia

Overview

Notice Requirements

Assessment Requirements

Curriculum & Qualifications

Additional Notes

DC is a moderate-regulation jurisdiction. The parent HS diploma/GED requirement is unusual for the region (waiver available from OSSE). The 15 business-day advance notice and August 15 annual continuation filing are firm deadlines. Portfolio retention of 1 year is required; OSSE may review up to twice per year. The online portal at homeschool.dc.gov centralizes all filings. Email: osse@dc.gov. Address: 1050 First Street NE, Washington DC 20002. Phone: 202-727-6436. AP exam access at DCPS starting 2023–24 is a valuable high school option. Compulsory ages: 5–18.

Tips for Homeschooling in District of Columbia

1. 1

   File your notice on time: "Notification of Intent to Homeschool filed at least 15 business days BEFORE beginning instruction (via homeschool.dc.gov). Annual Notification of Homeschool Continuation submitted by August 15 each year. Discontinuation notice required 15 days before stopping.". Set a calendar reminder 2 weeks before to prepare documents.

2. 2

   No formal assessment is required in District of Columbia. Consider voluntary portfolio tracking to document your child's progress for college applications.

3. 3

   Teacher qualification note: Parent or guardian must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Parents without a HS diploma/GED may petition OSSE for a waiver by providing evidence of their ability to provide thorough and regular instruction. No teaching license required.. Keep a copy of your credentials with your homeschool records.