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United States · Homeschool rules

Homeschooling in Pennsylvania

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 May 19, 2026

At a glance

Notice

Required

Curriculum

See details

Testing

See details

Teacher

See details

Overview

Homeschooling in Pennsylvania is governed by Pennsylvania School Code ยง 13-1327.1. Pennsylvania has some of the most detailed homeschool requirements in the US including annual notarised affidavits, portfolio evaluations by a licensed teacher, and standardised testing in grades 3, 5, and 8. Families should plan carefully to meet all requirements.

Telling the authorities

Notice is required

Who: Local school district superintendent

When: By August 1 each year

How to do it

Submit a notarized affidavit to your local school district superintendent by August 1 each year. The affidavit must include the names and ages of children, evidence of the parent's qualifications, and an outline of the proposed curriculum.

Requirements

Curriculum
Must cover English, mathematics, science, geography, history, civics, safety education, health, physical education, music, and art.
Testing
Standardised testing required in grades 3, 5, and 8. Portfolio must be evaluated annually by a licensed Pennsylvania teacher or a licensed psychologist.
Record keeping
Must maintain a portfolio of work samples and a log of reading materials. Portfolio must be evaluated annually and kept for two years.
Teacher
Teaching parent must hold a high school diploma or equivalent.

Recent changes

Pennsylvania is one of the more regulated homeschool states requiring annual notarised affidavits, portfolio assessments, and standardised testing in specific grades. Families new to Pennsylvania homeschooling should read the requirements carefully.

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