How to homeschool in Pennsylvania

Options for homeschooling

: 1

Notification required

: Yes

Standardized testing required

: Yes

ESA Option

: No

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Pennsylvania homeschooling laws and options

The primary option for homeschooling in Pennsylvania is homeschooling under the home education program law (Act 169). This option involves providing a notarized affidavit to your school district superintendent declaring your intent to homeschool.

Pennsylvania requires families to follow specific homeschool laws to ensure their curriculum aligns with the state’s compulsory school attendance requirements. Here are the key legal options and requirements to homeschool in Pennsylvania:

Compulsory education laws: In Pennsylvania, children aged 6 to 18 must attend school. Families need to submit yearly documents to their school district.
Parent requirements: Parents who homeschool don’t need teaching certifications but must provide education in required subjects.
Required subjects: Elementary students must study subjects like English, math, science, social studies, art, music, health, and safety. Secondary students must study English, math, science, history, geography, economics, government, health, physical education, art, music, and humanities.

For more detailed legal references, visit the official Pennsylvania Department of Education Homeschool page.

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 Pennsylvania

Starting your homeschooling journey in Pennsylvania with Time4Learning is simple! Here are the steps to get started:

Submit a notarized affidavit declaring your intent to homeschool to your school district superintendent. For sample affidavits, visit Pennsylvania Department of Educations' online homeschooling guide.
Create an instructional plan including all required core and elective subjects.
Choose a curriculum. Time4Learning can provide a comprehensive, flexible, and engaging curriculum that aligns with Pennsylvania’s requirements.
Maintain detailed records. Pennsylvania requires homeschoolers to keep a portfolio of student work and an evaluation report.
Meet standardized testing requirements. Pennsylvania requires standardized testing at specific grade levels (in grades 3, 5, and 8). Time4Learning offers excellent resources to help students prepare for tests.

Time4Learning’s online platform makes it easy to meet compliance requirements, ensuring you provide a well-rounded education at home.

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Pennsylvania’s high school graduation and diploma requirements

Homeschoolers in Pennsylvania must design their high school education to include the core subjects outlined by the state. However, homeschooling families have the freedom to customize the curriculum to their student’s needs.

Homeschooling students in Pennsylvania do not receive a traditional state diploma, but parents can issue a parent-signed diploma. Additionally, students can obtain a diploma through a recognized homeschool evaluation organization.

Pro tip: Include volunteer hours, internships, and independent projects in your homeschool program to make your high schooler’s transcript stand out.

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Standardized test requirements for Pennsylvania homeschoolers

Pennsylvania requires standardized testing at specific grade levels. Students must participate in approved tests in grades 3, 5, and 8 to meet state education regulations. Results are submitted as part of the annual portfolio to demonstrate academic progress.

Time4Learning can help your child prepare for these tests by providing test simulations, practice questions, and adaptive learning materials. The platform also allows students to review material and retake tests to ensure they master the material.

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Applying to college as a homeschooler in Pennsylvania

Homeschool graduates in Pennsylvania have access to all the same college opportunities as traditionally educated students. Homeschoolers can stand out in admissions by highlighting their unique educational experiences, such as self-directed learning, internships, or travel-based studies.

Many colleges and universities actively seek homeschool applicants for their independent learning skills and creativity. Make sure to provide the following when applying:

A detailed transcript, including completed courses, grades, and credits.
Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) if required by the college.
Recommendation letters from mentors, tutors, or extracurricular leaders.
A strong personal statement showcasing your homeschooler’s interests and achievements.

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Using an ESA for homeschool financial aid in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania currently does not offer Education Savings Accounts (ESA) for homeschoolers, meaning families must fund their homeschool materials and tools on their own.

However, Pennsylvania families can benefit from tax credit programs and scholarships to offset costs. The state’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program allows businesses to provide scholarships for educational expenses, which may include homeschooling needs. Additionally, families save money by using affordable curriculums like Time4Learning and free resources such as libraries, community centers, and educational events.