Homeschooling in Arizona: Finding Flexibility in Education
Want to homeschool in Arizona? Here's what you need to know about laws, steps, and support.
Arizona is one of the most homeschool-friendly states in the U.S., making it a great place to take learning into your own hands. Families can shape an education that fits their needs with simple legal steps and the freedom to choose how and what their child learns. Whether you're just starting out or adjusting your homeschool routine, finding a path that works for you is easy. Outschool can help, offering flexible classes that support and enrich your homeschool experience.
Understanding Arizona’s homeschooling laws
Understanding Arizona’s homeschooling laws helps set a strong foundation for your journey. The state offers a flexible legal framework that allows parents to direct their child’s education without much red tape. While there are a few key requirements, they’re straightforward to manage. Knowing your rights and responsibilities can help you homeschool with confidence and peace of mind.
File an Affidavit to homeschool
If you plan to homeschool in Arizona without using an ESA, you must file an Affidavit of Intent with your county school superintendent within 30 days of starting. The form should include your child’s name, birth date, and your contact information. You'll also need to send in a certified copy of your child’s birth certificate for identity verification. It’s a one-time step, unless your child returns to school and later switches back to homeschooling.
Withdrawing from public school
If your child is in public school, you must formally withdraw them before homeschooling. This helps avoid any confusion with truancy or attendance records. After that, file your Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool within 30 days. Once that’s done, you're all set to begin your homeschooling journey!
Compulsory attendance ages
In Arizona, children must be in school, public, private, or homeschool, starting at age 6. They’re legally required to stay enrolled in some form of education until at least age 16. If you're homeschooling, your program should cover this age range. After age 16, continued homeschooling is optional unless your student works toward graduation.
Set curricula and subjects
While Arizona doesn’t require a specific curriculum for homeschoolers, state law suggests covering subjects commonly taught in public schools, like reading, grammar, math, social studies, and science. There’s no need to use state-approved materials or administer tests, giving families plenty of freedom and flexibility in educating.
Graduation requirements for homeschoolers in Arizona
Graduating as a homeschooler in Arizona differs from the traditional school system and reflects the flexibility available to families. The state does not establish official graduation requirements for homeschool students, allowing parents to determine when their child is ready to graduate. Parents are responsible for setting academic standards and issuing a diploma upon completion. It is still essential to plan with future goals, such as college admissions or career pathways in mind.
This means that you get to:
Set the graduation standards As the primary educator, the parent decides what constitutes a completed high school education. This includes choosing the subjects, setting expectations for coursework, and determining when the student has fulfilled those expectations. Some families follow typical high school guidelines used by public schools, while others customize the curriculum to reflect the student’s interests or post-graduation plans.
Issue a homeschool diploma Parents in Arizona have the legal authority to issue a homeschool diploma once they believe their child has completed the high school program they designed. This diploma is a valid document that reflects the student’s academic completion and can be used for employment, college applications, and other official purposes. There is no need for approval from the state or local school districts.
Create a transcript your way Parents are responsible for creating a high school transcript for their homeschool student. It should list courses, grades, credits earned, and the graduation date. Transcripts are essential for college, scholarships, and job applications. While Arizona doesn’t require a specific format, it should look clear and professional.
How to start homeschooling
Getting started with homeschooling in Arizona is straightforward, thanks to the state’s flexible laws and parent-friendly approach. While there are a few critical legal steps, families have plenty of freedom when choosing how and what their children learn. Whether transitioning from public school or starting fresh, the steps below will help you begin confidently:
Decide to homeschool
File an Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool, submitting it to your county superintendent within 30 days of starting
Plan your curriculum with a choice to include the basics, such as reading, grammar, math, and science
Set a schedule that works for your family
Keep records for high school if they intend to apply for college or scholarships
Join local or online homeschool communities
Plan for college, testing, or transcripts if needed
Want more help navigating your first steps? Check out our guide on how to start homeschooling in 10 easy steps.
How Outschool supports homeschooling in Arizona
Arizona’s flexible homeschooling laws allow families to choose the learning resources that work best for them. Outschool is a great option, offering live and self-paced classes across core subjects and unique enrichment areas. Whether you want to supplement your curriculum or build a complete program, Outschool makes creating a personalized and engaging homeschool experience easy.
With Outschool, you get:
Complete curricula for all grades
Flexible learning that fits your schedule and goals
Classes that cover the basics suggested by Arizona state law
Test prep, tutoring, and enrichment options to support every learning path
Specialized courses for learners with unique abilities
Explore subjects you need and topics your learner loves, all in one place!
How to find homeschool support networks in Arizona
Homeschooling doesn’t have to be a solo journey; Arizona has a vibrant and welcoming homeschool community. From local co-ops to online support groups, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with other families, share resources, and find encouragement. These communities can provide academic support, social activities, field trips, and valuable guidance throughout your homeschooling journey.
Statewide organizations
These groups offer broad support, resources, and events for families across Arizona:
Arizona Families for Home Education (AFHE) - A non-profit organization that supports, promotes, and protects homeschooling in Arizona through resources, legislative updates, events, and an annual homeschool convention.
Arizona Homeschool Coalition (AZHSC) - An advocacy group focused on protecting homeschooling freedoms in Arizona, especially for families using alternative methods like umbrella schools or ESA-funded education
Arizona Education Association (AEA) Homeschool Network - While primarily a teachers’ association, AEA provides resources and updates that may be useful for families blending homeschool and public services, or those transitioning.
Local groups & co-ops
Connect with nearby families for classes, field trips, meetups, and shared learning:
East Valley Homeschoolers (Phoenix Metro Area) - A large, inclusive group offering social meetups, co-op classes, park days, and events for families in the Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and Tempe areas.
Tucson Homeschoolers - A well-established group providing online and in-person connections, frequent field trips, educational events, and community support.
West Valley Homeschoolers (Avondale, Goodyear, Surprise) - A social and academic group for families in the western suburbs of Phoenix, offering a mix of online and in-person events, co-op classes, and community building.
Verde Valley Homeschoolers (Northern Arizona) - A cooperative group that hosts regular group learning days, nature hikes, and local events for families in Cottonwood, Sedona, and nearby areas.
Prescott Area Homeschool Group (PAHG) - An active network in central Arizona offering park meetups, seasonal events, and curriculum swaps for secular and faith-based homeschoolers.
Top questions about homeschooling in Arizona
Every homeschooling journey has questions, especially when starting or learning a new state's guidelines. This FAQ section covers the essentials that families in Arizona often ask about, from legal steps and curriculum choices to testing, graduation, and college options. Whether you're just exploring or already committed, you'll find clear answers to help you move forward confidently.
Do parents need specific qualifications to homeschool in Arizona?
No, Arizona doesn’t require parents to have special certifications or teaching credentials to homeschool. You don’t need a college degree or formal teaching experience, just the desire to take charge of your child’s education. As long as you file the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool, you’re legally allowed to get started. This flexibility makes homeschooling accessible to families from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Are homeschoolers in Arizona required to take standardized tests?
No, homeschoolers in Arizona are not required to participate in standardized testing at any grade level. Parents can decide whether to include testing as part of their assessment process. Some families use annual or periodic tests to track progress or prepare for college admissions, but this is optional. The state does not collect test scores or monitor student performance, allowing families to evaluate learning in ways that work best for them.
Is unschooling legal in Arizona?
Yes, unschooling is a legal homeschooling approach in Arizona. Since the state does not prescribe how instruction must be delivered, families can adopt a child-led, interest-based learning style. As long as the required Affidavit of Intent is filed and the parent assumes responsibility for education, unschooling fully complies with state law. This flexibility makes Arizona an ideal place for alternative teaching methods.
How much does homeschooling in Arizona typically cost?
The cost of homeschooling in Arizona depends on how you choose to do it. Some families spend just a few hundred dollars a year using free or low-cost resources like libraries and Khan Academy. Others invest more in online programs, classes, or co-ops, which can add up to a few thousand dollars annually. You might also have extra costs for supplies, field trips, or extracurricular activities.
Is there a required number of instructional days for homeschoolers in Arizona?
No, Arizona does not require a specific number of instructional days for homeschoolers. Unlike public schools, which follow a state-mandated calendar, homeschooling families can set their schedules. This allows year-round learning, a four-day school week, necessary breaks, and travel-based education. While there’s no official time requirement, parents should ensure consistent instruction, especially during compulsory attendance (ages 6–16).
Can homeschoolers participate in public school activities or sports?
Yes, Arizona homeschoolers can join extracurricular activities and sports at the local public schools in their district. Under the state’s “Tim Tebow Law,” they must meet the same eligibility rules as public school students, including age and academic standing. Parents define academic progress, but schools may require registration or documentation. Participation is usually limited to the student’s assigned public school based on residence.
Do I need to keep a record of my child’s homeschooling?
Arizona law doesn’t require homeschoolers to submit records to the state or district regularly. Still, it’s a good idea to keep organized records of attendance, coursework, progress, and work samples. This is especially helpful for high school students applying to college, scholarships, or career programs. A clear transcript and portfolio can also make transitions back to public school easier if needed.
Can my homeschooler earn a diploma in Arizona?
Yes, homeschoolers in Arizona can receive a diploma issued by their parent or legal guardian. It’s valid for college admissions, jobs, and military enlistment. Pairing it with a clear transcript helps document your student’s education. Most institutions accept homeschool diplomas, though you may be asked to explain your program.
Can homeschoolers in Arizona attend college?
Yes, homeschoolers in Arizona can attend college, both in-state and out-of-state. Most colleges and universities, including Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and the University of Arizona, accept homeschool graduates as long as they meet the school’s admission requirements.
Typically, parents provide a transcript and diploma, and students may also submit standardized test scores (like the SAT or ACT), essays, or portfolios, depending on the college. Some schools have specific guidelines for homeschool applicants, so checking each institution’s admissions page is essential. Homeschoolers often succeed in college thanks to their independent learning experience and personalized education.
What happens if I decide to stop homeschooling and return to public school?
If you decide to re-enroll your child in public or charter school, the process is generally straightforward, though it can vary by district. The school might ask for homeschool records, a transcript, or have your child take a placement test. Having clear documentation can make the transition much smoother. You must also notify your county superintendent that you’re no longer homeschooling.
Just keep in mind that it can be more challenging for high school students, as some schools may not accept homeschool classes that didn’t include proctored exams. Returning to the school system is always an option, whether temporary or permanent.
Charting your own course: the Arizona homeschool advantage
Homeschooling in Arizona isn’t just legal—it’s liberating. With minimal red tape, supportive communities, and the freedom to shape your child’s learning journey, families can truly design education around their values, goals, and everyday lives. Whether you’re seeking structure, creativity, or a little of both, Arizona’s homeschool laws give you the tools to build a path that fits. And with resources like Outschool at your fingertips, you're never walking that path alone.
