High-regulation states have strict rules for homeschooling. Families must meet requirements like notifying officials, submitting curricula, and tracking attendance. This involves more oversight compared to low-regulation states.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. Most homeschool families report completing core academic subjects in 3-4 hours per day for elementary students, compared to the 6-7 hours typical of traditional schools, due to the one-on-one instruction and absence of classroom management overhead (NHERI, 2024).
What’s a high-regulation state?
A high-regulation state has strict rules for homeschooling. Families here face many compliance steps. While 11 states don’t require any notice, high-regulation states do. You need to tell officials you’re homeschooling, get your curriculum approved, conduct standardized tests, and keep detailed attendance records. Sometimes, parents also need to meet qualification standards. The level of state control in these areas is similar to private schools, making them some of the most restrictive places for homeschoolers.
New York requirements
New York is a prime example of a high-regulation state. Every year, families must send a Letter of Intent and get an Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP) approved before starting. You also need to submit quarterly progress reports to show you're on track. Each student must take annual standardized assessments to prove their academic progress. Kids must complete 180 school days—900 hours for grades K-6, and 990 for grades 7-12. You must keep thorough attendance records, too. If you don’t comply, your child might be declared truant and sent back to public school.
Pennsylvania requirements
In Pennsylvania, you need to submit an annual affidavit by August 1st. This includes student ID and immunization records. Parents must have at least a high school diploma or GED—this is one of the few states with parent qualification rules. Students take standardized tests in grades 3, 5, and 8. An annual written evaluation by a licensed psychologist, certified teacher, or nonpublic school administrator will review your child’s portfolio. While it may feel tough compared to low-regulation states, with good planning and paperwork, these requirements are manageable.
The bottom line
Living in a high-regulation state can add some paperwork to homeschooling, but don’t let it scare you. If you value educational freedom, you can handle it. Just know the rules and deadlines. Thousands of families successfully homeschool in New York, Pennsylvania, and other regulated states each year. Create a compliance calendar and build your documentation habits early. The oversight is doable, and you still get to enjoy the freedom of homeschooling.
