Homeschooling in Minnesota
Minnesota offers a moderately regulated homeschool environment, balancing parental autonomy with some oversight. Families must notify the local superintendent annually and meet specific requirements around subjects, instruction hours, and yearly assessments. While these guidelines require organization, they still leave room for personalized, flexible learning experiences.
Options for Homeschooling in Minnesota
Option #1
Independent Homeschool
Option #2
Homeschooling under a Private School Satellite Program
Option #3
Enrollment in an Online Public School
Option #1
Independent Homeschool
Option #2
Homeschooling Under a Private School Satellite Program
Option #3
Enrollment in an Online Public School
Breakdown of Homeschooling Options
Option #1: Independent Homeschool
This option is the primary legal homeschooling path in Minnesota.
Requirements:
- File an Initial Full Report to the local superintendent by October 1 of the first year homeschooling a child.
- Submit a Short Form Letter of Intent by October 1 each year after that.
- Instructor must have a high school diploma or GED. If not, a licensed teacher must supervise instruction.
- Required to teach subjects including reading, writing, literature, fine arts, math, science, history, geography, economics, government, citizenship, health, and physical education.
- Must provide instruction for the equivalent number of days/hours as public schools.
- Annual standardized testing using a nationally norm-referenced test is required.
- Immunization records (or exemption forms) must be submitted.
- Keep records of instruction, materials used, schedules, and test results. These do not need to be submitted unless requested by the superintendent.
Option #2: Homeschooling Under a Private School Satellite Program
This option is less common.
Requirements:
- Homeschoolers may operate under an established private school that reports to the state.
- The private school handles reporting and oversight.
- Must still comply with compulsory instruction laws, including subject coverage and testing.
- Used by some families seeking a more structured or umbrella-style support environment.
Option #3: Enrollment in an Online Public School
This option is not considered “true homeschooling” under Minnesota law.
Requirements:
- Enroll through a Minnesota public charter or virtual school.
- Subject to public school standards, including curriculum, attendance, assessments, and teacher oversight.
- Not legally categorized as homeschooling by Minnesota.
- Students are technically considered public school students receiving instruction at home.
Law-Related Quick Reference FAQs
Do parents/guardians need to file a form of intent to homeschool in Minnesota?
Yes, an Initial Full Report must be submitted in the first year, followed by a Short Form annually.
Do parents/guardians need to officially withdraw their student from public school in Minnesota?
Yes, to prevent truancy issues, formal withdrawal is advised when transitioning to homeschooling.
Do parents/guardians need a certain level of education to homeschool their children in Minnesota?
No, as long as you are the parent you may homeschool your child without issue.
Homeschool Questions and Answers (PDF, question 11)
What subjects are required to be taught by homeschoolers in Minnesota?
- Reading
- Writing
- Literature
- Fine arts
- Math
- Science
- History
- Geography
- Economics
- Government
- Citizenship
- Health
- Physical education
How many hours or days are required to equal a school year in Minnesota?
Kindergarten: 425 instructional hours
Grades 1–6: 935 instructional hours
Grades 7–12: 1,020 instructional hours
Or the equivalent of the public school year, typically 165 school days.
Are assessments/testing required for homeschoolers in Minnesota?
Yes. Annual standardized testing is required using a nationally norm-referenced test.
Homeschool Questions and Answers (PDF, question 14)
Do reports from testing have to be submitted by homeschoolers in Minnesota?
No, but results must be kept on file and shown to the superintendent upon request.
Homeschool Questions and Answers (PDF, question 16)
Does the state of Minnesota require a yearly portfolio for homeschoolers?
No. Portfolios are not required, but recordkeeping is strongly recommended.
Homeschool Questions and Answers (PDF, question 21)
Minnesota Homeschool Portfolio Requirements
Immunization: Is compliance required for homeschoolers in Minnesota?
Yes. Immunization records (or a conscientious objection or medical exemption form) must be submitted to the local school district.
Is MAP Growth an approved test in Minnesota?
Yes, MAP Growth is often accepted as a valid norm-referenced assessment, but families should confirm acceptance with their district.
What level of regulation does Minnesota have for homeschoolers?
Moderate. The state requires annual notification, record keeping, standardized testing, and minimum instruction requirements.
Are there special needs requirements for homeschooling children with disabilities in Minnesota?
Homeschooling parents can educate children with disabilities. The local school district must offer an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) if requested, but families are not obligated to accept or implement it. Some services may be available through the district upon registration.
Non-Law-Related Quick Reference FAQs
How can Minnesota homeschoolers participate in sports/extracurriculars through a local school?
Participation in public school extracurriculars is at the discretion of the local school district.
What Scholarships and Financial Aid are available for homeschoolers in Minnesota?
Homeschoolers are eligible for most merit- and need-based scholarships, including Minnesota’s Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program, which allows eligible high school students to take free college courses for credit.
How does Minnesota include homeschoolers in Special Programs or Discounts?
There are plenty of programs and discounts for homeschool families all across the state of Minnesota.
How many students are homeschooled in Minnesota?
As of recent data, approximately 30,000 students are homeschooled in Minnesota—roughly 3% of the school-age population. The number rose significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic and remains higher than pre-2020 levels.
Summary
Homeschooling in Minnesota requires some structure and annual reporting, but still leaves room for individualized learning and educational freedom. With access to dual enrollment, standardized test flexibility, and a variety of community resources, Minnesota provides a supportive environment for families choosing to homeschool.
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.