How to File a Private School Affidavit (PSA) in California: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeschool Families
If you're homeschooling in California, one of the most common ways to legally homeschool is by filing a Private School Affidavit (PSA). This option allows you to operate your own private school out of your home. While it might sound intimidating at first, the process is actually quite simple once you understand the steps. In this post, we’ll walk you through what the PSA is, who needs to file it, and how to file it properly… without the overwhelm!
🌿 What Is a Private School Affidavit (PSA)?
A Private School Affidavit is a form that California families can file each year with the California Department of Education (CDE). Filing the PSA essentially means you are establishing your own small private school, usually for just your children, and you're taking full responsibility for their education.
Filing a PSA is one of the four legal ways to homeschool in California. It provides families with the most freedom and flexibility, but it also means you’re fully responsible for maintaining records, creating (buying and supplying) your own curriculum, and meeting basic state requirements.
If you are looking for lesson planning ideas I have them HERE
🗓️ When to File the PSA
You can file the PSA between October 1st and October 15th of each school year. The website opens August 1st, if you want a head start.
If you’re pulling your child out of school mid-year or starting homeschooling after this window, you can still file at any time, but annual filings must always be done during the October window in subsequent years.
✅ Who Can File a PSA?
You can file a PSA if:
Your child is age 6 or older by September 1st of the current school year.
You are choosing to homeschool independently, without using a public charter, private ISP, or online school.
If your child is under age 6, you don’t need to file yet, California’s compulsory education law starts at age 6.
📝 Step-by-Step: How to File the PSA in California
Step 1: Go to the California Department of Education’s website
You’ll file the PSA online at:
➡️ https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/affidavit.asp
Step 2: Fill in your private school details
You’ll be asked for basic information such as:
The name of your school (you can get creative!)
Your address (this is your school location)
Your name (you are the administrator/teacher)
Enrollment information (just your children, typically)
Step 3: Confirm that your school meets the legal requirements
California requires private schools to:
Maintain attendance records
Provide instruction in subjects like English, math, science, social studies, fine arts, health, and PE
Keep a list of textbooks/curriculum used
Maintain immunization records or waivers
Step 4: Submit the affidavit
After reviewing and confirming all information, submit the form. You’ll receive a confirmation. Keep a copy for your records — you don’t need to submit it to your local district, but you should have it on file in case anyone asks.
After you file, each year the form will be prefilled out! You will only have to adjust the number of students and their grade level as it increases.
📚 What Records You “Must Keep”
Even though you're the one running your "private school," California still expects certain documentation to be “kept on hand”:
Attendance records (simple calendar or log)
Course of study/curriculum plan
List of instructors (usually just you!)
Immunization records or a waiver
Your PSA confirmation
You don’t need to submit these to anyone unless requested, just store them safely. They “expect it” yet they aren’t something you have to stress over, I’ve been homeschooling for going on eight years and haven’t had any issues in this area. I’ve never had to submit documentation but would keep our completed work in a folder "just in case” and would also take lots of photos (documented evidence of homeschooling).
🤔 Do I Need to Report to My School District?
Nope! When you file a PSA, you are establishing an independent private school, and you’re not required to report or get approval from your local school district. However, if you're withdrawing a child from public school, it's wise to send a brief withdrawal letter to avoid being marked truant.
🦋 Homeschool Harmony Tip: Make It Your Own
When you file a PSA, you become the principal, teacher, and curriculum planner all in one — but that doesn’t mean it has to be stressful. In fact, it can be empowering! You have the freedom to tailor your child’s education to your values, their learning style, and your family rhythm. Whether that includes structured worksheets, nature-based learning, or mindfulness practices, you get to choose.
I have tons of FREE resources, lesson planning guides and more HERE
Filing a Private School Affidavit is a powerful step toward educational freedom in California. While it does require responsibility, it also opens the door to a more personalized and joyful learning journey. You’re not just filing a form — you’re planting the seeds of your own homeschool adventure.
Let it grow in alignment with your values, your child’s interests, and your family's unique flow. 🌱