Homeschooling in New Hampshire
Homeschooling in New Hampshire is legally recognized and supported, with a balance of accountability and flexibility. Families can create a customized education tailored to their child’s unique learning style while following a few simple state requirements. With a strong community of support and access to various educational resources, New Hampshire is a welcoming state for homeschoolers.
Options for Homeschooling in New Hampshire
Option #1
Homeschool Under the New Hampshire Homeschool Statute
Option #2
Enroll in a Private School that Allows Home-based Instruction
Option #3
Online Public Charter School*
Option #1
Homeschool Under the New Hampshire Homeschool Statute
Option #2
Enroll in a Private School that Allows Home-based Instruction
Option #3
Online Public Charter School*
Breakdown of Homeschooling Options
Option #1:
Homeschool Under the New Hampshire Homeschool Statute
Requirements:
- Submit a Notice of Intent to homeschool to a participating agency (local SAU, private school, or the NH Department of Education) only once per child at the beginning.
- Teach the required subjects: Reading, writing, spelling, mathematics, science, history, government, health and the arts.
- No requirement for parent certification or curriculum approval.
Option #2:
Enroll in a Private School that Allows Home-based Instruction
Requirements:
- Enroll in a private school that permits families to educate at home under their umbrella.
- Follow the private school’s requirements for attendance, curriculum, and record keeping.
- This option offers more flexibility with oversight provided by the private school rather than the state.
Option #3:
Online Public Charter School*
While technically learning from home, this option is “virtual learning” and not considered homeschooling under NH law.
Requirements:
- Enroll in a New Hampshire-approved online public charter school (e.g., VLACS).
- Students are public school students and must comply with state curriculum and testing requirements.
- These students are not considered legally homeschooled under New Hampshire law, but it can be a good fit for families wanting a structured, virtual program.
Law-Related Quick Reference FAQs
Do parents/guardians need to file a form of intent to homeschool in New Hampshire?
No, New Hampshire no longer requires a letter of intent. It is still best practice to send one in to your district’s superintendent in order to avoid truancy issues and record keeping.
Do parents/guardians need to officially withdraw their student from public school in New Hampshire?
It is best practice to formally withdraw your student to avoid truancy issues. New Hampshire has moderate regulations and you can withdraw a student at any point in the school year.
Do parents/guardians need a certain level of education to homeschool their children in New Hampshire?
No, there are no formal education requirements for parents in New Hampshire.
What subjects are required to be taught by homeschoolers in New Hampshire?
Homeschoolers must cover:
- Reading
- Writing
- Spelling
- Mathematics
- Science,
- History
- Government
- Language
- Health
- and exposure to the Arts.
How many hours or days are required to equal a school year in New Hampshire?
There is no required number of hours or days for homeschoolers, but the instruction should be consistent and cover the necessary subjects. It is also recommended to get as close to the public school schedule that New Hampshire follows but it is not a requirement.
Are assessments/testing required for homeschoolers in New Hampshire?
No, an annual evaluation is no longer required.
Do reports from testing have to be submitted by homeschoolers in New Hampshire?
No, annual evaluations are no longer required. It is a good idea to keep records for college but it is no longer needed.
Does the state of New Hampshire require a yearly portfolio for homeschoolers?
No, a portfolio of the student’s work and reading materials is no longer required. It is best practice to keep one for college or other academic endeavors.
New Hampshire Homeschooling Coalition: Portfolio
New Hampshire Homeschool Portfolio Requirements – no longer required, but good practice
Immunization: Is compliance required for homeschoolers in New Hampshire?
No, immunization records are not required for homeschooled students.
Is MAP Growth an approved test in New Hampshire?
MAP Growth is a widely accepted option for the required annual evaluation. Many families appreciate it for its adaptive nature and ability to track academic progress over time, making it a valuable tool in documenting student growth.
What level of regulation does New Hampshire have for homeschoolers?
Moderate – While families enjoy curriculum freedom, As of July 10th New Hampshire does not require recordkeeping and annual evaluations.
Are there special needs requirements for homeschooling children with disabilities in New Hampshire?
Parents may homeschool children with special needs. While the state is not required to provide services, families can request evaluations and limited support through their local school district.
Non-Law-Related Quick Reference FAQs
How can New Hampshire homeschoolers participate in sports/extracurriculars through a local school?
Yes, homeschooled students are allowed to participate in public school extracurricular activities, including sports, as long as they meet the school’s eligibility requirements.
What Scholarships and Financial Aid are available for homeschoolers in New Hampshire?
Homeschool students in New Hampshire are eligible for state and private scholarships, including merit-based and need-based aid, especially with strong test scores or dual enrollment credits.
Homeschool
Children’s Scholarship Fund New Hampshire (EFA)
NH Education Freedom Accounts
Postsecondary
Scholarships Overview
How does New Hampshire include homeschoolers in Special Programs or Discounts?
Many educational venues and businesses offer homeschool days or discounts, including the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, SEE Science Center, and local libraries. Homeschool co-ops also organize field trips and community events.
How many students are homeschooled in New Hampshire?
As of recent reporting, over 6,000 students are homeschooled in New Hampshire. Interest in homeschooling continues to rise, particularly in rural and suburban communities where access to alternative education models is valued.
Resources:
Summary
New Hampshire offers a homeschool-friendly environment with a blend of flexibility and accountability. Parents are free to design their own curriculum while meeting a few core state requirements like notification and evaluation. With supportive networks and testing options like MAP Growth available to measure progress, New Hampshire homeschoolers can confidently tailor their education to each child’s needs and strengths.
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.