Free, plain-language homeschool rules for all 50 states, DC and Australia. Every page is checked against official government sources and watched for law changes.

United States · Homeschool rules

Homeschooling in Alabama

What the law asks of you, in plain language, with links to the official sources so you can check every line.

Low requirements Notice required Last verified May 26, 2026

At a glance

Notice

Required

Curriculum

See details

Testing

Not required

Teacher

No qualifications

Overview

Homeschooling in Alabama is governed by Alabama Code section 16-28-1 which requires children to be enrolled in a church school program. Alabama’s model is unique in the US — rather than dealing directly with the state, families enroll in an umbrella school which manages compliance. This actually simplifies the process significantly for most families.

Telling the authorities

Notice is required

Who: Local church school or Alabama Home Educators association OR enroll in a church school umbrella program

When: Before beginning homeschooling

How to do it

Alabama families must enroll their child in a church school or private school umbrella program. The umbrella school handles the notification and compliance requirements on behalf of the family. Families do not deal directly with the state or local school district.

Requirements

Curriculum
Must provide instruction in the same core subjects as public schools. Specific subjects determined by the umbrella school program chosen.
Testing
No standardized testing required by state law.
Record keeping
Attendance records maintained by the umbrella school. Families maintain their own academic records.
Teacher
No qualifications required.

Recent changes

Alabama's umbrella school model is unique — families must be enrolled in a church school program which handles compliance. This simplifies the process for families but requires choosing an appropriate umbrella program first.

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General information, not legal advice. Always confirm with your school district or education department.