Virginia VA Homeschooling

Laws change—always check your state’s official site.

Homeschooling is a form of private, parent-directed education for children who are subject to Viriginia’s compulsory school attendance laws. If you choose to homeschool in VA, you take responsibility for providing regular, thorough instruction for your child in core subject areas.

  • Submit Notice of Intent (NOI) to your local division superintendent by Aug 15 each year (or ASAP if starting mid-year). Include parent qualification and list of subjects.

  • Acceptable parent qualification (one of): HS diploma; teacher licensure; curriculum/provider enrollment; or other evidence of ability to provide adequate education (per Code §22.1-254.1).

  • Provide instruction during the period public schools are in session (~180 days/990 hours).

  • Annual evidence of progress due by Aug 1 (standardized test, evaluator letter, or recognized transcripts).

  • Alternatives: Certified Tutor route or Religious Exemption (different rules).

Homeschooling Requirements in Virginia (VA)

DC Portfolio / Records

  • Keep work samples, subject lists, assessments/test results, evaluator letters, and materials documenting instruction/time.

  • Maintain documents needed for the Aug 1 progress submission.

Legal Requirements

Here are key legal requirements to be aware of when homeschooling:

  • Children generally must be in school (public, private, or homeschool) from age 5 through at least age 16–18 depending on the state. Homeschooling is recognized as a valid alternative if all requirements are met.

  • Before starting, parents must formally notify their local school district or state education office of their intent to homeschool.

    • In Virginia, a Notice of Intent (NOI) is submitted to the local division superintendent.

    This notification must usually be filed before beginning instruction and is renewed annually.

  • Parents are expected to be capable of providing instruction.

    • In Virginia, parents must meet one of several qualification options (such as having a diploma, teacher licensure, enrolling in an approved program, or showing ability to teach).

  • VA require parents to provide broad, well-rounded instruction. Families must cover at least:

    • English/Language Arts

    • Mathematics

    • Science

    • Social Studies

    • Arts, Music, Health, and Physical Education

  • Homeschooling must be regular and thorough.

    • Virgnia do not set a specific number of hours or days but expect consistent teaching across the year.

  • Parents are required to maintain documentation of their child’s learning. This may include:

    • Work samples

    • Reading lists or lesson plans

    • Tests, projects, or progress reports

    • Instructional materials

    • In Virginia, families must submit evidence of academic progress each year (such as test scores or evaluator reports).

  • Certified Tutor or Religious Exemption (VA): Families may homeschool if a licensed tutor is providing instruction, or claim exemption based on religious conviction.