Homeschooling in North Dakota offers two main paths: independent and monitored. Parents can choose based on their qualifications, allowing flexibility and support.
North Dakota is home to approximately 5,000 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).
Two options: Independent vs. monitored
In North Dakota, you have two paths for homeschooling.
Independent Homeschool: If you have a high school diploma or GED, you can notify the state, teach required subjects, test at certain grades, and do this all without much oversight. This is the most popular choice among families.
Monitored Homeschool: If you don’t have a diploma or GED, a certified teacher will supervise your homeschooling for the first two years. They’ll send progress reports twice a year to the superintendent. After two years, if your test scores are good enough, you can switch to independent status. This option helps families get started while providing extra support.
Getting started with homeschooling
To begin homeschooling in North Dakota, file your notification at least 14 days before starting. After that, you can focus on teaching your child.
Testing requirements
You need to test your child in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10 using standardized tests. You can choose the same test used by local schools (paid for by them) or pick a different nationally-normed test (at your cost). This gives you freedom to choose a test that fits your teaching style.
Send the results to the superintendent. While there's no minimum passing score for independent homeschoolers, monitored students scoring below the 50th percentile may need continued oversight.
Testing exemptions
Some parents can exempt their kids from testing if they have:
- A bachelor’s degree in any field
- A valid teaching license
- Praxis certification
- A bachelor’s degree with a genuine moral, philosophical, or religious objection to testing
If you qualify, you must still file a statement of intent and meet other requirements. This recognizes that qualified parents can assess their kids' progress without standardized tests.
Record-keeping requirements
North Dakota requires you to keep basic records. Here’s what you need:
- Attendance: Keep a log showing you’ve taught a minimum of 175 days with at least 4 hours of instruction each day.
- Curriculum Coverage: Show that you’re teaching required subjects. Keep your materials, course descriptions, and samples of student work.
- Test Results: Keep copies of test scores for grades 4, 6, 8, and 10.
The superintendent may ask to see these records, but that’s rare. Good record-keeping helps if questions arise.
Sports and extracurricular activities
Homeschoolers in North Dakota can join public school sports with approval from their local district. The same eligibility rules apply to them as to full-time students.
It’s best to check with your local school for their specific policies. Some may need proof of your homeschool status and academic standing.
There are also homeschool athletic associations and co-ops for those who prefer activities specifically for homeschoolers.
Graduation and beyond
Parents issue their own diplomas in North Dakota. There are no state requirements for graduation—you set your own standards.
For college-bound students, create transcripts that show courses, grades, and credits. North Dakota universities, like UND and NDSU, accept homeschoolers and evaluate them alongside traditional students. SAT and ACT scores can also help in admissions.
Understanding the monitored pathway
If you don’t have a diploma or GED, the monitored pathway helps you homeschool with support. A certified teacher will check in on your instruction and student progress. They’ll provide reports to the superintendent twice a year.
After two years of successful monitoring and good test scores, you can apply to switch to independent status. If scores don’t meet the mark, you may need to keep monitoring until they improve.
Conclusion
North Dakota offers a balance between freedom and accountability for homeschooling. Just file your notification, teach required subjects, test at four grades, and keep basic records. For parents with a diploma or GED, that’s all the state requires. The monitored pathway ensures everyone can homeschool while getting the support they might need.
So, get started by notifying your district and focus on giving your child a great education. North Dakota’s reasonable requirements are designed to be easy to follow.
