How to homeschool in Ohio

Options for homeschooling

: 1

Notification required

: Yes

Standardized testing required

: No*

ESA Option

: No

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Ohio homeschooling laws and options

In Ohio, families can legally homeschool their children by choosing the Home Education option. If you decide to homeschool under this law, you'll need to notify your local school district superintendent in advance. Here's what you need to know about Ohio's homeschooling regulations:

Notification required: Yes. Parents are required to submit a notification form to their local school district superintendent before the beginning of each school year.
Standardized testing required: Yes. Homeschool students must take standardized tests annually or provide an alternative form of assessment approved by the superintendent.
Compulsory education ages: Children in Ohio must begin schooling at age 6 and continue until they turn 18 or graduate high school.
Parent education requirements: No formal educational requirements are necessary for parents to homeschool their children.
Subjects required: Ohio law requires that homeschool students study the following subjects:
Language (reading, spelling, writing)
Geography, history of the United States and Ohio
Mathematics
Natural science
Government, including the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution
Health, physical education, fine arts (including music), and first aid

For additional details, visit the Ohio Department of Education Homeschooling Guidelines.

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 with Time4Learning in Ohio

Homeschooling in Ohio is a straightforward process when you follow these steps and utilize Time4Learning’s resources to meet the state’s requirements:

Submit the notification form to your local school district superintendent, outlining your intent to homeschool. The form must include your curriculum plan and assurance that 900 hours of instruction will be provided.
Choose your curriculum that meets Ohio's subject requirements. Time4Learning offers an all-in-one, online program that covers all required subjects for students in pre-K through 12th grade.
Ensure assessment compliance by preparing your child for standardized tests or utilizing Time4Learning’s tools to fulfill portfolio or alternative assessment requirements.
Plan your school year to ensure you provide at least 900 hours of instruction annually. Time4Learning membership includes access to the Activity Planner to help parents create a schedule.

Time4Learning offers interactive lessons, progress tracking, and comprehensive coverage of Ohio’s subject requirements, making it a trusted choice for Ohio homeschool families.

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Ohio’s high school graduation and diploma requirements

While Ohio does not issue diplomas to homeschooled students, parents have the authority to create and issue a diploma for their child upon graduation. Graduation requirements are determined by the parent. Some families choose to follow state credit guidelines, which recommend 20 credits in key subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and social studies.

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Standardized test requirements for Ohio homeschoolers

Standardized testing is mandatory for Ohio homeschoolers but offers flexibility in the method of assessment. Options include:

Annual standardized tests to assess academic progress.
Written narratives created by a certified teacher or other qualified individual evaluating your student’s work.

Such tests and assessments must be provided to your superintendent to fulfill legal requirements.

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Applying to college as a homeschooler in Ohio

Ohio homeschoolers are successfully gaining admission to colleges nationwide by showcasing their unique experiences and preparing effectively. Here are some tips to help streamline the process:

Transcripts: Create a detailed, professional transcript that highlights your completed coursework, grades, and credit hours. Use this as an opportunity to showcase any specialized or self-directed learning projects unique to your homeschool journey.
Standardized tests: Prepare for and take tests like the ACT or SAT if required by your target colleges. Strong scores can complement your unique homeschool education.
Letters of recommendation: Reach out to co-op teachers, private tutors, or group leaders who can speak to your skills, initiative, and ability to thrive in a non-traditional learning environment.
College essays: Highlight your homeschool experience in your essays. Discuss your individualized learning path, self-discipline, and any creative or entrepreneurial projects that set you apart from traditional students.

Many institutions in Ohio, like Ohio State University and Miami University, are homeschool-friendly and provide detailed guidance for applying as a homeschooler.

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Using an ESA for homeschool financial aid in Ohio

Ohio currently does not provide an ESA (Education Savings Account) program for homeschool families, so financial aid through state-sponsored ESAs is unavailable. However, multiple alternative opportunities are available, including:

Local grants or scholarships for homeschoolers.
Small education tax credits or deductions for education-related expenses. For more details on tax advantages, consult the Ohio Department of Taxation.

By utilizing resources like Time4Learning and staying compliant with Ohio laws, homeschooling your child in Ohio can be both fulfilling and efficient.