Hours / Days
No specific requirement
State Code
AR
Subjects
0 required
Filing Requirements
Notice of Intent
August 15 annuallyFile NOI with the Arkansas Department of Education Home School Office. The process is simple and free.
How to Comply with Arkansas's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Arkansas
Legal Classification
Home School (Notice of Intent)
Compulsory Education Ages
5-17
Steps to Get Started
File a Notice of Intent
Prepare a written Notice of Intent (NOI) form and submit it to your school district superintendent. If you're starting before August 15, you can file anytime before classes begin. If your child is currently in public school, you must file at least 14 days before withdrawing.
- Download the NOI form from the Arkansas Department of Education website
- Complete all required fields with your information and child details
- Sign the form as the parent or legal guardian
Filing by August 15 is the easiest option—families filing after August 15 may face a 5-day waiting period.
Submit Your NOI to the Right Office
Deliver your completed Notice of Intent to your resident school district superintendent's office. You can submit it in person, by mail, or through your district's online submission system if available.
- Contact your school district office to confirm the submission method they prefer
- Ask for written confirmation that your NOI was received
- Keep a copy for your records
Saving confirmation of receipt protects you if there's ever a question about whether you filed.
Update if You Move Districts
If you relocate to a different school district during the year, you must provide written notice to both your old superintendent (terminating) and new superintendent (new NOI) within 30 days of the move.
Arkansas tracks homeschooling by district, so changing districts requires notifying both offices.
Design Your Curriculum
Arkansas has no mandated subjects, curriculum approval process, or specific teaching requirements. You have complete freedom to choose how and what your child learns. Select curricula that align with your family's values and your child's learning style.
- Choose traditional curricula or take a more eclectic approach
- Select online programs, textbooks, or hands-on learning materials
- Build your own curriculum or use a pre-made program
Arkansas's lack of curriculum mandates means you can customize your approach to fit your child's needs perfectly.
Maintain Attendance and Records
Keep records of attendance and instruction provided, though these don't need to be submitted to the state. These records help you track progress and document educational activity.
- Maintain daily attendance records showing school days
- Keep receipts for curriculum and educational material purchases
- Save samples of completed work, tests, and projects
File a Termination Notice if Stopping
If you stop homeschooling and enroll your child in public school or move out of state, notify your school district superintendent in writing.
This helps keep your school district's records accurate and avoids confusion about your child's status.
Withdrawing from School
File your Notice of Intent at least 14 days before withdrawing your child from public school. If you're starting homeschool before your child enters public school, you only need to file the NOI—no formal withdrawal is required.
Public School Access
Arkansas homeschoolers may be able to participate in some public school activities depending on district policy. Contact your superintendent's office to inquire about sports, clubs, or dual enrollment opportunities.
Special Education
Arkansas allows families with students with special education needs to homeschool. If your child previously had an IEP, coordinate with your school district regarding any services or support you want to continue.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Use a simple calendar to mark school days and track attendance
- Keep a folder with samples of your child's best work and achievements
- Save receipts and invoices for educational materials and curriculum
- Document field trips, educational activities, and classes attended
- Create a monthly or semester summary of subjects covered and skills developed
Assessment Requirements
No testing required. The testing requirement was repealed by Act 832 of 2015.
Record Keeping
No record-keeping requirement mandated by law.
Key Facts About Arkansas
Notice of Intent filing is the only official requirement
No mandated subjects, curriculum, or teaching methodology
No testing or assessment requirements since 2015 repeal
Parents have full curriculum freedom and flexibility
Compulsory age: 5-17
“Every family's homeschool journey in Arkansas is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to do to homeschool in Arkansas?
File a Notice of Intent with the Arkansas Department of Education by August 15 each year. That is your only official requirement. There is no curriculum approval process or other paperwork needed.
Does Arkansas require me to teach specific subjects?
No. Arkansas does not mandate any specific subjects. You have complete freedom to choose your curriculum and teaching approach.
Are there testing requirements in Arkansas?
No. Arkansas repealed its testing requirement in 2015 (Act 832). You are not required to administer standardized tests or any other assessments.
What qualifications do I need as a parent?
Arkansas has no teacher certification or high school diploma requirement for homeschooling parents. Anyone can homeschool in Arkansas.
Looking for requirements in another state?