How to Homeschool in Indiana

A calm, clear guide to getting started and feeling confident

Homeschooling in Indiana gives families the freedom to shape education in a way that really works for them—with very few bureaucratic hoops to jump through. Whether you’re new to home education or simply exploring what’s required in Indiana, this guide will walk you through everything step by step.

With a bit of planning and a good understanding of your responsibilities, you’ll be ready to create a flexible, meaningful learning experience for your child—on your own terms.

How to Start Homeschooling in Indiana

Getting started is easier than you might think. If your child hasn’t attended a public or accredited private school, there’s no formal paperwork to file—you can begin home education at any time. If you’re switching from public school, here’s what to do:

Notify your current school in writing that you’re withdrawing your child to homeschool.
For high school students, complete the state’s “Withdrawal to Non-Accredited Nonpublic School” form so your teen isn’t flagged as a dropout (this also protects things like driver’s license eligibility).
Keep a copy of your withdrawal letter and any forms for your records.
Start homeschooling—there’s no waiting period or approval process required.

Indiana Homeschool Laws at a Glance

Compulsory School Age

Children must be enrolled in school starting at age 7 and continue until age 16—or until they graduate from a homeschool program.

Annual Notification

Indiana does not require a yearly Notice of Intent. You only need to notify the school if you are withdrawing a child from a public or accredited private school.

Instructional Time

You must provide instruction for at least 180 days per year. You do not have to follow a traditional school calendar—set a schedule that fits your family.

Required Subjects

Instruction must be provided in English and be “equivalent” to that of public schools. You don’t have to mirror the public system; most families include:

Reading and writing (language arts)
Math
Science
Social studies (including history and civics)
Health and physical education

Feel free to add art, music, foreign language, life skills, and more—whatever reflects your child’s interests and your family’s goals.

Curriculum and Learning Materials

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach in Indiana. You can use structured programs, build your own lesson plans, blend online and print tools, and change things up as you go.

Many families appreciate multisensory, mastery-based programs for foundational skills. We recommend:

All About Reading for colorful, systematic phonics and fluency,
All About Spelling for fun, step-by-step spelling mastery, and
All About Math for engaging, hands-on math understanding.

Local libraries, museums, and community workshops also make great (and often free) enrichment options.

Recordkeeping & Testing

Recordkeeping

Parents are required to maintain attendance records and be able to show proof of 180 days of instruction if requested by the state superintendent. It’s also wise to keep:

Samples of your child’s work,
A simple curriculum outline or scope & sequence, and
Progress notes or grades (especially helpful for high school transcripts).

Standardized Testing

Standardized testing is not required for Indiana homeschoolers unless specifically requested by the school district. You can still use tests as a tool to gauge progress or prepare for a return to public school.

Homeschool Community in Indiana

Indiana has a vibrant homeschool community with co-ops, park days, field trips, and support groups across the state. Look for:

Local homeschool co-ops and hybrid programs,
Facebook groups and regional forums for meetups and classes,
Libraries, museums, and nature centers offering homeschool days.

Tips for Homeschooling Success in Indiana

Start simple—no need to have everything perfect on day one.
Create a daily rhythm that brings consistency but leaves room for flexibility and fun.
Connect with other families for encouragement, social time, and curriculum swaps.
Use everyday experiences—cooking, errands, and nature walks make great learning moments.
Adjust as needed. One of the greatest gifts of homeschooling is the freedom to pivot.

If you’re new to homeschooling or want tips from veteran homeschoolers, check out these free resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is homeschooling legal in Indiana?

Yes! Indiana has supported private home education for more than a century.

Do I need to file paperwork each year?

No. After you withdraw (if applicable), there’s no annual reporting requirement in Indiana.

Do I need to be a certified teacher?

No teaching license or specific credentials are required—just provide instruction in English for 180 days each year.

Can I unschool in Indiana?

Yes—child-led learning is allowed as long as instruction is in English and you meet the 180-day requirement.

What if I start homeschooling mid-year?

There’s no waiting period in Indiana. Withdraw (if needed) and begin homeschooling right away.

Final Thoughts

Homeschooling in Indiana puts you in the driver’s seat. You don’t have to mimic a traditional classroom—your homeschool can be calm, cozy, hands-on, project-based, academic, playful, or all of the above. As long as you provide regular instruction in English for 180 days each year, how you do it is up to you.

You’ve got the freedom, and now you’ve got the facts—go build something that works beautifully for your family.

Helpful Resources

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.