How to homeschool in Wisconsin

Options for homeschooling

: 1

Notification required

: Yes

Standardized testing required

: No

ESA Option

: No

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Wisconsin homeschooling laws and options

Homeschooling in Wisconsin is a legal and flexible option for educating your child. State law requires children aged 6–18 to attend school or receive an equivalent homeschool education.

Here are some key requirements for homeschooling in Wisconsin:

Parents must file a PI-1206 Homeschool Report form annually with the Department of Public Instruction by October 15th.
No specific educational qualifications are required for parents.
Homeschooling parents must provide instruction in at least 875 hours annually.
The curriculum must include “sequentially progressive instruction” in reading, mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies.
Parents are not required to submit progress reports, testing results, or curriculum plans to the state.

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 Wisconsin

Time4Learning provides a comprehensive and user-friendly online curriculum designed to make homeschooling in Wisconsin easier and more effective. Let's explore how to start homeschooling in Wisconsin and how Time4Learning can enhance your homeschooling experience.

Notify the state. File the PI-1206 Homeschool Report form annually with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. This is required to comply with state laws. Access the PI-1206 form here.
Set a schedule. Plan to provide at least 875 hours of instruction each year. Divide your time across the academic calendar to meet this requirement without stress.
Try Time4Learning. Time4Learning is an excellent resource for Wisconsin homeschoolers as it provides an easy-to-use, online curriculum that include the required subjects like reading, mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies.
Organize your learning space. Set up a comfortable and distraction-free area in your home where learning can take place effectively.
Track progress. Keep records of the hours taught and the topics covered to show your compliance with the annual 875-hour instruction requirement. With built-in planning tools and automated record-keeping, Time4Learning helps parents stay organized.

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Wisconsin's high school graduation and diploma requirements

Homeschoolers in Wisconsin do not need to follow traditional high school graduation requirements. Parents are responsible for setting their own standards for when their child has completed high school. Here are some specifics to consider:

Homeschool diplomas issued by parents are legally valid and recognized in Wisconsin.
Some Wisconsin homeschoolers choose to use third-party organizations to create a transcript or diploma that reflects their coursework.
Students aiming for college or career-specific pathways should include relevant electives, advanced courses, or technical training in their education plan.

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Standardized test requirements for Wisconsin homeschoolers

Wisconsin does not require homeschoolers to participate in standardized testing. However, some parents choose to test their children to evaluate their academic progress or to fulfill requirements for college admission. Here are a few testing options:

Homeschoolers may take tests like the SAT, ACT, or Iowa Basic Skills Test.
Time4Learning offers tools to help students prepare for standardized tests by developing critical skills in math, reading, and writing.

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Applying to college as a homeschooler in Wisconsin

College admissions offices increasingly recognize homeschoolers as diverse and resourceful candidates who bring unique experiences to their campuses. Here’s how Wisconsin homeschoolers can succeed in the college application process:

Create a transcript that outlines courses completed, grades received, and any extracurricular achievements.
Develop a strong portfolio showcasing special projects, community involvement, and leadership roles.
Use Time4Learning’s robust recordkeeping and reporting features to easily compile academic records for applications.
Homeschoolers can also take standardized tests like the SAT or ACT to further demonstrate their academic readiness.

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Using an ESA for homeschool financial aid in Wisconsin

Currently, Wisconsin does not offer Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) for homeschool families. However, parents can save money through strategic planning:

Choose cost-effective curriculum resources like Time4Learning, which offers a low monthly fee and an all-in-one program.
Utilize free community resources like local libraries, museums, and online learning tools.
Participate in homeschool co-ops or support groups to share resources and reduce costs.

Homeschooling in Wisconsin is an enriching path for many families, supported by flexible laws and the ability to tailor education to children’s strengths and interests.