Homeschooling in Arkansas is refreshingly flexible and parent-friendly. Whether you’re considering homeschooling in Little Rock or anywhere else in the state, you’ll find supportive communities, minimal red tape, and the freedom to tailor your child’s education in a way that works for your family.
This guide will walk you through what’s required, how to get started, and how to build a rewarding and personalized homeschool experience—without the overwhelm.
Getting started is simple. Here’s what to do:
Once your NOI is filed, you’re free to start building a homeschool day that fits your child’s pace, interests, and learning style.
Arkansas law requires children ages 5 through 17 to be enrolled in school—homeschooling satisfies this requirement as long as your NOI is filed.
Each year, you’ll submit an updated Notice of Intent to homeschool. There’s no curriculum approval or registration process—just this one annual form.
There are no mandated school hours or number of days required. Many families follow a 180-day schedule, but you’re free to set your own rhythm.
Arkansas doesn’t mandate specific subjects. Most families include:
The freedom to choose your curriculum means you can shape learning around your child’s strengths and interests.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to curriculum in Arkansas. You’re free to use structured programs, unit studies, online tools, or create your own plan from scratch.
Many families love mastery-based, multisensory programs—especially for foundational skills like reading, spelling, and math. We recommend:
These open-and-go resources are great for families who want guidance but still want room to adapt the pace and approach. You can also take advantage of:
With so many resources available, your homeschool day can be creative, hands-on, and fun.
While not required, it’s a good idea to keep:
This helps when preparing high school transcripts or participating in sports or dual-enrollment programs.
Arkansas does not require homeschoolers to take standardized tests, but you’re welcome to use them if you’d like to track your child’s progress.
Families in Arkansas may be eligible for the Educational Freedom Account program, which offers support for qualified educational expenses. While this isn’t available to all homeschoolers, it can be an option depending on your family’s circumstances.
For more information, visit the official program site.
One of the best parts of homeschooling in Arkansas? The supportive network of families and local groups who are ready to connect, share, and cheer each other on.
Look for:
Whether you’re looking for a field trip buddy or a community theater group, there’s likely something nearby that fits your family’s vibe.
If you’re new to homeschooling or want tips from veteran homeschoolers, check out these free resources:
Homeschooling in Arkansas offers the freedom to build a learning experience that reflects your family’s values and your child’s unique gifts. With just a few steps to get started, you can create a homeschool day that’s full of curiosity, connection, and progress—on your own terms.
Whether you lean toward structured lessons, hands-on projects, or a little of both, you’re not just checking boxes—you’re crafting something meaningful. And you don’t have to do it alone. There’s a whole community here ready to support you.
Disclaimer:
All information is current as of August 2025. This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) for official guidance.