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United States · Homeschool rules

Homeschooling in North Dakota

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

High requirements Notice required Last verified October 20, 2026

At a glance

Notice

Required

Curriculum

See details

Testing

See details

Teacher

See details

Overview

North Dakota allows parents to home educate, but it has more rules than most states. You file a statement of intent with your local school superintendent every year, teach the same subjects public schools teach for at least 175 days, and keep a yearly record of courses and progress.

Standardized testing is required in grades 4, 6, 8 and 10 unless you qualify for an exemption, for example if you hold a bachelor’s degree or a teaching license, or you file a philosophical, moral or religious objection with your statement of intent. Parents without a high school diploma or GED can still home educate, but a licensed teacher monitors the program for the first two years.

Since 2023, the statement of intent is due at least 5 days before you start (it used to be 14). If you move into a new district, you have 14 days after moving to file.

Telling the authorities

Notice is required

Who: The superintendent of your school district of residence (or the county superintendent if your district has none)

When: At least 5 days before you begin, or within 14 days of moving into a district. File again every year.

How to do it

File the Statement of Intent to Supervise Home Education (form SFN 16909) with the superintendent. It lists your child's name, address, date of birth and grade, your name, address and qualifications, and any public school courses or activities your child will take. Include a copy of your child's immunization record and proof of identity.

Requirements

Curriculum
You must teach the subjects required for North Dakota public school students, for at least 4 hours a day and at least 175 days a year. You choose the materials and method.
Testing
Standardized testing is required in grades 4, 6, 8 and 10, given by a licensed or approved teacher. You are exempt if you hold a teaching license, a bachelor's degree, or a passing score on a national teacher exam, or if you file a philosophical, moral or religious objection with your statement of intent. Results go to the superintendent. A score below the 30th percentile triggers an evaluation and, if needed, a remediation plan.
Record keeping
Keep a yearly record of courses taken and academic progress assessments, including any standardized test results. If your child transfers to a public school, you must provide it on request.
Teacher
A high school diploma or GED. Parents without one can still home educate, but a licensed teacher monitors the program for the first two years (longer if test scores are below the 50th percentile).

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