How to homeschool in Alabama

Options for homeschooling

: 3

Notification required

: Yes

Standardized testing required

: No

ESA Option

: No

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Alabama homeschooling laws and options

In Alabama, the law requires children between the ages of 6 and 17 to attend school. However, parents can choose to homeschool by either establishing a home-based private school, enrolling their child in a church school, or hiring a certified tutor. No specific qualifications are required for parents to homeschool however it's crucial to familiarize yourself with these options and select the best fit for your family's needs.

Home-based private school. When choosing to create a private school in your home, you must notify your local County Superintendent of Education. This notification must include information about the school and a list of enrolled students.
Church School. Enrolling your child in a church school involves filing a church school enrollment form and reporting attendance to the church school administrator. This option provides additional support and resources for families.
Certified Tutor. Hiring a tutor requires the tutor to hold a valid Alabama teaching certificate. Tutors must teach at least three hours a day for 140 days each calendar year.

Alabama doesn’t require a specific curriculum for homeschoolers, but parents are encouraged to focus on core subjects like math, English, science, and social studies. Families can also add other subjects based on their children’s interests and goals, giving them plenty of flexibility.

For more detailed information and support, families can refer to the Alabama State Department of Education's page on homeschooling.

We have done our best to ensure the accuracy of this information, however it should not be interpreted as legal advice. It is your responsibility to interpret and understand the laws that you will be homeschooling under.

How to homeschool in Alabama with Time4Learning

Time4Learning is an excellent resource for families homeschooling in Alabama. Its comprehensive online curriculum provides a balance of structure and flexibility, making it an appealing option whether you choose a home-based private school, a church school, or a certified tutor. Here's how our parents use Time4Learning for homeschooling:

Personalize learning. Access core subjects like math, English, science, and social studies, plus optional foreign languages and electives to match your child’s interests.
Easy progress tracking. Although Alabama doesn’t mandate testing or recordkeeping, Time4Learning’s automated tools help you stay organized and ready for future plans with grading, lesson plans, and progress reports.
Flexible schedules. Meet Alabama’s 140-day instruction requirement with Time4Learning’s self-paced lessons that fits into your routine. Plan your schedule effortlessly with our Activity Planner, a beloved tool designed to keep you organized and on track!
Community support. Connect with forums and groups for advice and encouragement, perfect for families new to homeschooling or yearning to improve their program.

Using Time4Learning as part of your homeschool plan in Alabama can simplify the process while ensuring your child receives a high-quality education tailored to their needs.

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Graduation and diploma requirements in Alabama

Homeschoolers in Alabama do not have formal state graduation requirements. Parents can issue a homeschool diploma when they feel their child has adequately completed their education. To ensure smooth transition to post-secondary education or employment, consider aligning your curriculum with Alabama's public school requirements.

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Alabama standardized test requirements

Alabama does not require standardized testing for homeschool students. However, parents may choose to administer tests such as the Stanford Achievement Test or the Iowa Test of Basic Skills to gauge educational progress and identify areas for improvement.

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Applying to colleges in Alabama as a homeschooler

Homeschoolers in Alabama apply to colleges much like traditional students, but they may need extra documents to show their academic progress. Most colleges welcome homeschool graduates, and good preparation makes the process easier. Here are some steps to help:

Create a detailed transcript. Compile a high school transcript that lists courses, grades, and credits earned. Include descriptions or syllabi for unique courses, if needed. As a Time4Learning member, you’ll be able to download a transcript template from our parent portal.
Add a portfolio. This is a great opportunity to show how well-rounded your student is! They can stand out by including information about volunteer work, passion projects, and dual enrollment. As a Time4Learning member, you can print out weekly reports of work and place them in a 3-ring binder.
Prepare for standardized tests. Take SAT, ACT, or other required exams, as these scores often serve as an academic benchmark for homeschoolers.
Gather letters of recommendation. Request recommendation letters from educators, mentors, or other adults who can attest to your abilities and character.
Write a strong application essay. Highlight your homeschool experience, unique strengths, and accomplishments in your essay to stand out.

We always recommend to reach out to the admissions office at each college you're considering—it’s a great way to understand exactly what they need from homeschool applicants. It’s simple, and it can help ensure your application shines!

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Using an ESA for homeschool financial aid in Alabama

While Alabama currently does not have a universal ESA program, homeschool families may want to stay informed about legislative developments or explore other state-specific educational funding programs that can support their needs. They may qualify for specific tax benefits and deductions. Additionally, Alabama offers various school choice programs, including the Alabama Accountability Act, which allows eligible students to receive scholarships to attend private schools.