Homeschooling in Indiana
In Indiana, homeschooling is legally considered equivalent to operating a non-accredited, nonpublic school. This classification grants parents the freedom to design curricula and educational experiences that best suit their children’s needs, while adhering to specific state requirements.
Options for Homeschooling in Indiana
Indiana offers a single, clear-cut option for homeschooling:
Option #1
Enroll in a Church School
Option #2
Establish a Private School
Option #3
Utilize a Certified Private Tutor
Homeschool as a Non-Accredited, Non-Public School
Breakdown of Homeschooling Options
Homeschool as a Non-Accredited, Non-Public School
Requirements:
- Compulsory Attendance: Children between the ages of 7 and 18 are required to attend school. Homeschooling families must provide instruction for the same number of days as public schools, typically 180 days per academic year.
- Instruction Language: Education must be conducted in English.
- Attendance Records: Parents are required to maintain accurate attendance records to verify compliance with the 180-day instruction mandate.
- Curriculum: While the state does not prescribe specific subjects, instruction should be equivalent to that provided in public schools. This includes a broad range of disciplines to ensure a well-rounded education.
Law-Related Quick Reference FAQs
Do parents/guardians need to file a form of intent to homeschool in Indiana?
No, Indiana does not require parents to file a notice of intent to homeschool. However, parents may choose to report their homeschool’s enrollment to the Indiana Department of Education, though it is not mandatory.
Do parents/guardians need to officially withdraw their student from public school In Indiana?
Yes, if a child is currently enrolled in a public or private school, parents should formally withdraw the student to avoid truancy issues. For high school students, a specific withdrawal form must be completed and submitted to the school.
WITHDRAWAL TO NON-ACCREDITED NONPUBLIC SCHOOL LOCATED IN INDIANA (PDF)
Do parents/guardians need a certain level of education to homeschool their children in Indiana?
No, Indiana does not impose educational qualifications on parents who choose to homeschool.
What subjects are required to be taught by homeschoolers in Indiana?
The state does not mandate specific subjects. However, instruction should be equivalent to that provided in public schools, encompassing a comprehensive range of subjects.
How many hours or days are required to equal a school year in Indiana?
Homeschoolers must provide instruction for 180 days per academic year. The state does not specify a required number of hours per day.
Are assessments/testing required for homeschoolers in Indiana?
No, Indiana does not require standardized testing or assessments for homeschooled students.
Do reports from testing have to be submitted by homeschoolers in Indiana?
Since testing is not required, there are no reports that need to be submitted.
Does the state of Indiana require a yearly portfolio for homeschoolers?
No, there is no requirement to maintain or submit a yearly portfolio.
Immunization: Is compliance required for homeschoolers in Indiana?
Indiana does not mandate immunization records for homeschooled students.
Is MAP Growth an approved test in Indiana?
While Indiana does not require testing for homeschoolers, the MAP Growth test is a recognized assessment tool that some homeschooling families may choose to use voluntarily.
What level of regulation does Indiana have for homeschoolers?
Indiana is considered a low-regulation state for homeschooling, offering families significant autonomy in their educational approach.
Are there special needs requirements for homeschooling children with disabilities in Indiana?
Parents are not legally obligated to provide special education services. However, they are encouraged to seek resources and support to meet their child’s unique needs. Public schools may offer certain services to homeschooled students upon request.
Center for Behavior and Systems Innovation: HANDS in Autism
Indiana Family to Family
INESA Families
Non-Law-Related Quick Reference FAQs
How can Indiana homeschoolers participate in sports/extracurriculars through a local school?
Policies vary by school district. Some districts allow homeschooled students to participate in extracurricular activities, while others do not. It’s advisable to contact your local school administration to inquire about their specific policies.
Indiana High School Athletics Association
Indiana Association of Home Educators – What about sports?
What Scholarships and Financial Aid are available for homeschoolers in Indiana?
Indiana offers several programs that can assist homeschooling families financially:
How does Indiana include homeschoolers in Special Programs or Discounts?
Many cultural institutions, museums, and educational centers in Indiana offer special programs, classes, or discounts tailored for homeschooling families. It’s advisable to contact local institutions directly or visit their websites to inquire about available homeschool days, workshops, or discounted admissions.
Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites – Homeschool
Conner Prairie Homeschool Programs
Potawatomi Zoo
How many students are homeschooled in Indiana?
As of the 2023-2024 academic year, enrollment in Indiana’s private school voucher program, which includes some homeschooled students, surged to 70,095 students—a 31% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, the Indiana Education Scholarship Account program reached full enrollment for the first time since its inception in 2022.
Summary
Homeschooling in Indiana provides families with the flexibility to tailor their children’s education while adhering to state guidelines. With access to various resources, support networks, and financial assistance programs, Indiana families can confidently pursue a homeschooling path that meets their educational goals.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Homeschool laws change frequently and may be applied differently by local districts. Please confirm current requirements with your state department of education, local school district, or a licensed attorney.