Homeschooling

Homeschooling in Illinois is considered to be a form of private education. It is the education of children at home or in a place other than school. Families have the option of homeschooling their children and registration is not required by the state. Please review this FAQ created by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). 

State Approval and Registration

• Approval in not needed: Parents and guardians do not need permission or approval from the Illinois State Board of Education or local Intermediate Service Centers/Regional Offices of Education to start homeschooling.

• Voluntary registration: Registering your child's homeschooling experience with the state is completely optional, not mandatory.

• No teacher qualifications: Parents do not need a teaching license, certification, or college degree to teach their children at home. 

Legal Requirements

Even though state approval is not required, Illinois law mandates that homeschools function as a form of private education and meet a few basic standards: 

• Equivalent education: Instruction must be given in English and offer an education that is at least equivalent to public schools.

• Required subjects: You must teach six core areas: language arts, mathematics, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, fine arts, and physical development/health. 

• No testing or hour mandates: The state does not enforce specific hours per day, days per year, or standardized testing for homeschool students. 

ISBE Contact Info

Please note that the contact info below cannot be used to assist with licensure questions.

Email: ROEISC@isbe.net
Phone: 217-785-9998