Homeschooling in Washington

A practical starting point for Washington families: what to file, what to track, and what state funding (if any) you can use.

At a glance

Laws & requirements

Moderate Regulation

File a declaration of intent. Annual testing or assessment required, retained by the family.

ESA & funding

No ESA Program

No statewide ESA program at this time.

In-depth guides

In-depth guide

Washington homeschool laws

Notification, record-keeping, testing, and umbrella-school rules for Washington families.

Read the guide

In-depth guide

Washington homeschool funding

Washington's funding landscape — what programs exist, who they serve, and why homeschoolers may or may not qualify.

Read the guide

Getting started in Washington

A high-level checklist tailored to Washington’s rules. Specifics like form numbers and deadlines live in the in-depth state laws guide above.

1
Decide your homeschooling approach
Pick the structure that fits your family — independent homeschool, an umbrella school or co-op, or a public charter that supports home-based learning. Your choice affects which rules apply to you.
2
File notice and set up your records
Submit the state's notice of intent annually and set up the records the state expects — typically attendance logs, a portfolio of work samples, and any required subjects of instruction.
3
Track attendance and assessments
Log instructional days as required, keep work samples in a portfolio, and schedule the state's required assessment or evaluation when it falls due.
4
Choose curriculum and plan your year
Choose curriculum that fits your child's grade level and any required subjects, then sketch a year-long plan you can adjust as you go.

Frequently asked

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Washington?

Yes. You'll file a notice of intent annually and maintain the records the state expects (attendance, portfolio, or progress reports depending on the state).

Does Washington require homeschool standardized testing?

Periodic standardized testing or an evaluator-written narrative is typically required. Check the state summary above for the exact cadence.

Can homeschool families in Washington access ESA or scholarship funding?

No statewide ESA program at this time.

How do I withdraw my child from public school in Washington?

Send a written withdrawal letter to the school's principal or registrar. Keep a dated copy. Once you have filed any state-required notice, your child is considered a homeschooler and the public school no longer needs to mark them absent.