How to Homeschool in New Mexico

A guide to creating your unique homeschool experience in the Land of Enchantment

Homeschooling in New Mexico invites families to blend Pueblo culture, desert landscapes, and Spanish colonial history into a customized education. Whether you’re tracing ancient cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument or using Albuquerque’s balloon fiesta data for math lessons, the state’s homeschool-friendly environment and local support groups empower you to lead—and creativity will be your greatest ally.

How Do I Start Homeschooling in New Mexico?

To begin homeschooling in New Mexico, parents must submit a Notice of Intent to Homeschool through the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) Home School System or mail the paper form to the department. Notification is required within 30 days of beginning instruction and must be renewed annually by August 1. There is no state fee for filing.

New Mexico Homeschool Laws

Parents with at least a high school diploma or equivalent may homeschool children ages 5 through 18. No teaching credential is required, and no further state approval is necessary beyond filing the Notice of Intent.

Required Subjects in New Mexico

New Mexico statute mandates instruction in:

Reading
Language arts
Mathematics
Science
Social studies

The law does not set daily hour minimums, allowing families flexibility in their schedules.

Recordkeeping

Parents must keep records of student attendance by law. It’s also recommended to maintain a complete portfolio for review in case a district or state official requests proof of instruction.

Assessment & Optional Testing

Standardized testing is not required, but many families choose nationally normed assessments to track academic growth. Local co-ops and associations may also offer optional testing and evaluations.

Homeschool Programs in New Mexico

Families can choose from:

Independent homeschooling – complete curricular freedom
Umbrella programs – shared resources, group classes, and extracurricular activities
Online programs – structured digital curricula with teacher support

Costs & Grants

There is no state fee to homeschool. While New Mexico does not provide state-funded grants, some private foundations and umbrella programs offer scholarships or sliding-scale tuition. Free resources like public library e-books, Khan Academy, and the All About Learning Press Free Resources page can help reduce costs.

Choosing Curriculum

We recommend mastery-based, multisensory programs, including:

No-Cost Resources

Free curricula can be found through public school shared materials, community co-ops, and online platforms. The All About Learning Press Free Resources page offers downloadable worksheets, lesson ideas, and guides at no cost.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is homeschooling legal in New Mexico?

Yes. New Mexico law explicitly allows parent-directed education for children ages five through eighteen.

How do I start homeschooling in New Mexico?

File a Notice of Intent with the New Mexico Public Education Department by August 1 or within thirty days of withdrawing from public school.

Do you get paid to homeschool in New Mexico?

No. The state does not offer stipends, though private scholarships and discounts may be available through certain programs.

Are there homeschooling grants in New Mexico?

The state does not provide grants, but local foundations and umbrella schools may offer financial aid.

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.

Helpful Resources