Indiana Homeschool Notice Requirements

Compulsory Attendance Ages

Indiana requires compulsory school attendance for children ages 7 through 18 under IC 20-33-2. Note that compulsory attendance does not begin until age 7, which is later than many states. A child who turns 18 during the school year is no longer subject to compulsory attendance.

No Registration or Notification Required

Indiana is one of the most hands-off states in the nation for homeschooling. You do not need to:

• Register your homeschool with the state.
• File a Notice of Intent or any paperwork with your school district.
• Report your curriculum, schedule, or teaching methods to anyone.

You simply begin educating your child at home. That said, if your child is currently enrolled in a public school, you should formally withdraw them (see below).

Equivalent Instruction Standard

Under IC 20-33-2-27 and IC 20-33-2-28, it is unlawful for a parent to fail to provide instruction "equivalent to that given in public schools." However, Indiana law does not define what "equivalent instruction" means. The state does not prescribe specific subjects, curricula, or teaching methods. In practice, this standard is interpreted broadly and gives families wide latitude.

No Teacher Qualifications

Indiana imposes no teacher qualifications on homeschooling parents. You do not need a teaching certificate, college degree, or any specific training.

Attendance Requirements

Under IC 20-33-2-20, homeschools must provide 180 days of instruction per academic year (July 1 through June 30). You must maintain an accurate daily record of attendance. These records must be available upon request by the Indiana Secretary of Education or the local public school superintendent.

No Required Subjects

State law exempts home schools from the specific curriculum and program requirements that public schools must follow. You are free to design your own curriculum. Most families cover core subjects like language arts, math, science, social studies, and health, but this is by choice, not by mandate.

Withdrawing from Public School

If your child is currently enrolled in an Indiana public school, submit a written withdrawal letter to the school. Indiana does not have a specific withdrawal form, but your letter should state that you are withdrawing your child to provide home education. Keep a copy for your records. You do not need the school's permission to withdraw.