How to homeschool in Iowa

Homeschooling in Iowa gives families the freedom to customize their children’s education to fit their unique needs. Thankfully, the state doesn't require parents to have any specific educational qualifications to homeschool, making it an accessible option for many families.

Iowa's compulsory school age applies to children between 6 and 16 years old and the state recognizes several legal homeschooling options, each with unique requirements and flexibility:

• Competent Private Instruction (CPI): Parents can choose to homeschool through CPI, with or without a licensed teacher’s oversight. Families using CPI need to submit a Competent Private Instruction Form (Form A) to their district each year by September 1. They’re also required to keep track of attendance, immunizations, and educational progress, which might involve testing or portfolio reviews if needed.
• Independent Private Instruction (IPI): This is a more flexible option that doesn’t require notifying the state, but it comes with limits, like allowing no more than four unrelated students. Families using IPI need to keep records of the subjects taught, the number of instructional days, and proof of immunizations, just in case the state asks for them.
• Private Instruction Exemption: Families with kids not in public or accredited private schools need to make sure their children are getting private instruction. They should keep records showing consistent instruction in math, reading, language arts, science, and social studies, along with proof of immunizations, to stay compliant.

Visit the Iowa Department of Education's homeschool page for detailed information.

Homeschooling in Iowa allows parents to decide when their students meet high school graduation requirements. Some steps you can take to ensure your child is prepared for graduation include:

• Tracking coursework: Maintain detailed records of completed courses and credits. Time4Learning’s high school curriculum provides easy-to-use tracking tools. 
• Creating a transcript: Use these records to create a professional transcript that demonstrates your student's academic achievements.

Issuing a diploma: Parents can issue a homeschool diploma when graduation requirements have been met. Time4learning parents can award their highschooler a personalized diploma using the diploma template in the Parent Dashboard.

Homeschooled students in Iowa may or may not be required to take standardized tests, depending on their chosen method of instruction:

• CPI with supervision: Requires annual assessment, which can include a standardized test such as the Iowa Basic Skills Test. Parents may also submit a portfolio review or have their child evaluated by a licensed teacher. 
• IPI: This option does not require testing, although some parents may choose to administer tests to gauge academic progress.

Homeschooling provides Iowa students with distinctive opportunities to excel in college admissions. With a flexible curriculum and tailored learning experiences, homeschoolers can demonstrate qualities like self-motivation, independence, and strong critical thinking skills. By thoughtfully preparing and showcasing your academic achievements and unique educational journey, you can confidently pave the way for college success. Many colleges and universities typically look for:

• Transcripts: Include a record of all completed coursework, credits, and grades. As a Time4Learning member, you can download a transcript template directly from our parent portal.
• ACT/SAT Scores: Submit standardized test scores if required by the college. 
• Letters of Recommendation: Ask mentors, teachers, or coaches for personalized recommendations. 
• Course Descriptions: Provide details of advanced courses or unique learning experiences if needed. 
• Portfolios: Showcase your unique learning experience and well-roundedness. As a Time4Learning member, you can download and print weekly reports to build and structure your portfolio.

For Iowa-specific scholarships or financial aid programs, visit the Iowa College Aid website.

Under Iowa’s Education Savings Account (ESA) program, families may qualify to use funds for educational expenses, including homeschooling-related costs. While ESA funds may not cover all homeschool expenses, they can help with certain eligible costs, such as curriculum fees, technology, or required materials.

For up-to-date information and application details, visit the Iowa Department of Education ESA page.