Homeschooling in New York comes with specific laws and requirements. You'll need to create an Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP), submit quarterly reports, and complete annual assessments. Understanding these regulations is key to a successful homeschooling journey.
New York is home to approximately 80,000 homeschooled students, making it one of the active homeschooling communities in the nation (NCES estimates, 2023). Homeschool regulations vary dramatically across the U.S. — 11 states have no requirement to notify the government, while 6 states require curriculum approval, standardized testing, or professional evaluations (HSLDA, 2024).
New York homeschool requirements at a glance
In New York, homeschool laws are outlined in Section 100.10 of the Commissioner's Regulations. It sets up a system with four key parts: annual notice and plan submission, quarterly progress reports, annual assessments, and district oversight.
The state requires that your home instruction be similar to public school instruction. This means you need to meet specific subject, hour, and assessment requirements.
Districts can be very different in how they work with homeschool families. Some are friendly and supportive, while others may be tough. New York City has a dedicated homeschooling office, which can be helpful. It’s a good idea to connect with local homeschool families to learn about your district before you start.
Expect to do some paperwork. Experienced families often spend 1-2 hours a month on record-keeping once they get into the routine. The first year might take more time as you get used to the rules.
The annual compliance timeline
Individualized home instruction plan (IHIP)
Your IHIP is your yearly curriculum plan—it shows what you’ll teach in each subject. You need to submit it within four weeks after your district gets your Letter of Intent.
What to include: For each child, list required subjects and what you plan to teach. Mention any books or materials you’ll use. If you’re not using a formal curriculum, explain your approach.
Format: There’s no specific format required. Some districts provide forms, while others accept whatever works for you. Use detailed narratives, bullet points, or simple lists—whatever helps you.
Flexibility: The IHIP is your guide, not a contract. You can change your plan during the year if needed. Just note any big changes in your quarterly reports.
District response: The district has 10 business days to respond. They must accept it if you cover the required subjects well. If they have questions, they’ll ask for clarification.
Required subjects in New York
New York has a list of required subjects that varies by grade level. It’s more detailed than many other states.
Grades 1-6 subjects: Arithmetic, reading, spelling, writing, English, geography, US history, science, health education, music, visual arts, physical education, and bilingual education or ESL when needed.
Grades 7-8 subjects: English (2 units), history and geography (2 units), science (2 units), mathematics (2 units), physical education, health (1 semester), art (1 semester), music (1 semester), practical arts and home economics (2 units).
Grades 9-12 subjects: English (4 units), social studies (4 units), math (2 units), science (2 units), art/music (1 unit), health (0.5 unit), physical education (annually), plus electives to total 22 units.
Special requirements: All grades must include teaching about patriotism, citizenship, traffic safety, fire prevention, and New York history. You can weave these topics into other subjects.
Quarterly reports
New York asks for four progress reports each year—this is more than most states require.
Due dates: Your district will set specific dates, usually around November 15, January 31, April 15, and June 30.
What to include: Each report needs to show hours spent on each subject, a summary of what you covered, and a narrative about your child’s progress. If your district asks, include work samples.
Tracking hours: Keep a log of instructional hours. The yearly requirement is 900 hours for grades 1-6 and 990 hours for grades 7-12. Each report should show how you’re progressing toward these totals.
Practical tip: Keep a simple log during the quarter. Note subjects, activities, and hours. Then compile this for your report. Many families find that spending 20-30 minutes weekly makes reporting easier.
District review: Districts check reports for completeness. If your child isn’t making enough progress, they may ask for a meeting or more documentation. Generally, as long as you’re compliant, you’ll be fine.
Annual assessments
You must show your child’s educational progress through formal assessments each year. The type of assessment depends on their grade level.
Testing years (grades 4, 6, 8, and yearly for 9-12): Your child needs to take a standardized test in reading and math (elementary) or relevant subjects (secondary). The district must approve the test, and it needs to be given by a qualified person. Common options include the Iowa Tests and Stanford Achievement Test.
Score requirements: Your child should score at or above the 33rd percentile. If not, the district may require a remediation plan. Scoring below this for two years in a row can lead to probation.
Non-testing years (grades 1, 2, 3, 5, 7): Submit a narrative evaluation from a certified teacher or an approved individual. This evaluation checks if your child is making adequate progress.
Alternative assessments: High school students can use Regents examinations as assessments. Some families like this option to create a transcript that colleges recognize.
High school and graduation
In New York, high school homeschooling means you’ll deal with testing and specific credit requirements. Parents can issue diplomas, but keeping good records is important for college applications.
Credit requirements: New York suggests 22 units for graduation, broken down like this: English (4), social studies (4), math (2), science (2), art/music (1), health (0.5), physical education (2), plus electives. Each unit is about 180 hours of instruction.
Regents exams: Homeschoolers can take Regents exams at public schools. While not required, they provide recognized assessments that colleges understand. Consider taking these for core subjects.
Transcripts: Create detailed transcripts showing course titles, credits, grades, and GPA. Include descriptions for non-traditional classes and document any dual enrollment or AP exams.
College admissions: New York colleges are familiar with homeschoolers. The SUNY and CUNY systems have clear processes. Strong test scores, transcripts, and sometimes portfolios or interviews can help show readiness.
Dealing with your school district
Your relationship with your school district can shape your homeschooling experience. New York districts differ a lot—from supportive to tough.
Know your rights: Districts can’t impose extra requirements beyond state laws. They can’t demand home visits or approve your curriculum. They can review your IHIP and quarterly reports.
NYC specifics: New York City has a dedicated Office of Homeschooling for all boroughs. Their processes are standardized, making it easier. Follow their forms and timelines closely.
Suburban and rural districts: Practices differ. Some are hands-off, while others are strict. Connect with local homeschool families to learn about your district’s vibe before you file.
If conflicts arise: Document everything. If a district crosses legal lines, reach out to HSLDA or another legal group. Most issues can be sorted out with clear communication.
Building relationships: A little positive contact can go a long way. Share achievements and show appreciation to staff for smoother future interactions.
Special situations
You can start homeschooling anytime. Just send your Letter of Intent within 14 days of starting and your IHIP within 4 weeks. Quarterly reports will follow from your start date. If leaving public school, notify them in writing.
NYC specifics: In NYC, you must follow specific attendance ages (6-17) and use the central Office of Homeschooling. Use their forms when possible.
Special needs students: You can homeschool kids with IEPs, but you’ll lose public school special education services. Many families hire private therapists. Assessment and reporting rules stay the same.
Moving to New York: File your Letter of Intent within 14 days of moving. Previous records can help with grade placement. Just be ready to meet New York’s stricter subject requirements.
Moving from New York: Keep copies of all your documents. Your detailed records will be useful in any state, as most require less than New York.
Resources and support
New York has a strong homeschool community, which is great for support.
State organizations: Groups like LEAH (Loving Education at Home) offer support and legal help. NYCHEA focuses on New York City homeschoolers. There are regional groups for local connections.
Support groups and co-ops: Co-ops across the state provide classes, field trips, and community. Many also help with group testing for assessments at lower costs.
BOCES services: Some Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) offer services to homeschoolers, including testing and extracurricular activities. Availability can vary by region.
Library resources: Public libraries often support homeschoolers with programs and resources. Many offer free access to educational databases and digital materials.
The bottom line
New York's homeschool laws require a lot—there’s no denying the paperwork. You’ll need to manage annual IHIPs, quarterly reports, and assessments with score requirements.
Families that succeed create systems: weekly logs for easier reporting, organized files for IHIPs, and connections with local homeschoolers for tips on working with districts and group testing.
Your first steps: Send your Letter of Intent by July 1 (or within 14 days if starting mid-year). Prepare your IHIP carefully and set up a tracking system that works for you. Connect with local support groups—they’re your best resource for understanding district expectations.
