Free Tool · Pennsylvania
High regulationHow to withdraw your child from public school in Pennsylvania.
Yes — homeschooling is legal in Pennsylvania. PA has a documentation-heavy framework: a notarized affidavit by August 1 each year, a portfolio reviewed by a certified evaluator annually, and standardized testing in grades 3, 5, and 8.
Last reviewed
Pennsylvania requires the affidavit to be notarized — a regular signature is not enough. Plan a trip to a notary (UPS Store, your bank, or a mobile notary) before filing. Without notarization, the district can reject the affidavit.
We don't store your child's information. PDFs are generated in memory and discarded. We are not your attorney; for edge cases call HSLDA or a local attorney.
Yes — homeschooling is legal in Pennsylvania. PA has a documentation-heavy framework: a notarized affidavit by August 1 each year, a portfolio reviewed by a certified evaluator annually, and standardized testing in grades 3, 5, and 8.
Who are you withdrawing in Pennsylvania?
Add every child you're pulling from school. We'll list them on the letter and produce one packet for the whole family. Use the legal name on school records.
Child 1
What happens after you withdraw in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires a notarized affidavit filed with your district superintendent before starting (or by August 1 each year). You'll also need an annual portfolio reviewed by a PA-certified evaluator and standardized testing in grades 3, 5, and 8.
By day 1
Deliver this withdrawal letter to the principal in person, by certified mail, or by email with read receipt.
By day 7
Get your affidavit notarized. UPS stores, banks, AAA offices, and mobile notaries all work. Cost is typically $5–$25.
By day 14
File the notarized affidavit with your district superintendent. Include all required attachments: medical/dental records, immunization records, and educational objectives.
By day 30
Choose curriculum for the required PA subjects (English, math, science, social studies, art, music, health/PE, safety education, civics, plus state/local history at the secondary level).
By day 60
Find a PA-certified evaluator. PHEN and PA Homeschoolers maintain directories. Most charge $75–$150 per child for the year-end review.
By day 90
Begin building your portfolio: reading log, work samples, standardized test scores (grades 3/5/8), and a written evaluation summary will all be needed at year-end.
Frequently asked questions about Pennsylvania withdrawals
Is homeschooling legal in Pennsylvania?
Yes — homeschooling is legal in Pennsylvania. PA has a documentation-heavy framework: a notarized affidavit by August 1 each year, a portfolio reviewed by a certified evaluator annually, and standardized testing in grades 3, 5, and 8.
Do I need to file a Notice of Intent in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania requires a notarized affidavit filed with your district superintendent before starting (or by August 1 each year). You'll also need an annual portfolio reviewed by a PA-certified evaluator and standardized testing in grades 3, 5, and 8.
What does Pennsylvania require beyond the withdrawal letter?
In Pennsylvania, beyond the withdrawal letter you'll need to file a notice of intent (or equivalent declaration) with the state or your district. Periodic standardized testing is also required. Pennsylvania requires a portfolio of student work, available for review. Verify the current procedure on the Pennsylvania Department of Education website before filing.
What records do I need to keep in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania expects 180 days of instruction and 900 hours of instruction per year. The attendance log we generate is sized to that requirement; keep it filled in by hand or use Homeschool OS to track automatically.
Can I generate one letter for multiple kids in Pennsylvania?
Yes. The wizard supports up to 10 children per family. The letter lists each child by name, grade, and date of birth; one packet covers the entire withdrawal.
Official sources
Want this all tracked automatically going forward?
Homeschool OS handles the Pennsylvania attendance log, compliance deadlines, and portfolio for you — pre-configured for your state. Free for 21 days, no card.
Start your free trialWe’re not your attorney. Always verify Pennsylvania-specific requirements with your Department of Education before filing. For edge cases — religious exemption, IEP/504 disputes, custody contests — call HSLDA or a local attorney.