Hours / Days
Equivalent to public schools (typically 180 days, 900-1000 hours annually)
State Code
CT
Subjects
5 required
Filing Requirements
Notice of Intent (Optional)
Annually (if filed)Connecticut does not require NOI, but filing it with your local superintendent is recommended to establish documentation.
How to Comply with Connecticut's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Connecticut
Legal Classification
Home Instruction Program
Compulsory Education Ages
5-18
Steps to Get Started
Provide Equivalent Instruction
Connecticut law requires that you provide instruction equivalent to what is taught in public schools. This means you must teach reading, writing, spelling, English grammar, geography, arithmetic, United States history, and civics (including local, state, and federal government). However, there is no approval process, curriculum requirements, or school notification mandate.
- Equivalent means your instruction covers similar breadth and depth as public school
- You choose the curriculum and teaching method
- You decide how to integrate or separate subjects
Connecticut is very parent-friendly—the equivalency standard is flexible and interpreted broadly.
Optional: Notify Your School District
While Connecticut law does not require notification, it's recommended that you complete an Intent to Homeschool form and submit it to your school superintendent's office. This clarifies your status and can prevent misunderstandings. The form is not legally required but is a best practice.
- Contact your superintendent's office to request the Intent to Homeschool form
- Complete the form with your child's information and your homeschool start date
- Submit the form annually or when changes occur
- Keep a copy for your records
Even though not required, notification helps your district know your child is receiving education elsewhere and prevents truancy concerns.
Design Your Curriculum
You have complete freedom in choosing your curriculum and teaching approach. You can use traditional textbooks, online programs, unit studies, unschooling, classical education, or any combination. The only requirement is that your instruction covers the required subjects at a depth equivalent to public school.
This flexibility is what makes Connecticut homeschooling so parent-friendly—you can truly customize your approach.
No Testing or Assessment Required
Connecticut does not require any standardized testing, state assessments, or formal evaluations. You are not required to conduct tests or submit results. If you want to assess your child's progress, you can voluntarily use standardized tests, but this is entirely optional.
Some homeschoolers voluntarily test to benchmark progress; others rely on portfolio assessment or observation.
Maintain Learning Records
While Connecticut doesn't require specific record-keeping, it's wise to maintain records of what you've taught, books read, and your child's progress. These records help you stay organized and are useful if questions ever arise about educational activity.
- Keep a simple learning log of subjects covered and topics taught
- Save samples of completed work, projects, and assignments
- Document field trips, classes, and enrichment activities attended
- Take photos of hands-on learning and project work
Trust Your Judgment
Connecticut trusts parents to make educational decisions. There's no approval process, no required check-ins, and no state oversight beyond the equivalency requirement. This means you have significant autonomy to create an education that truly fits your child's needs and your family's values.
This trust is both a responsibility and a freedom—design an education you're proud of.
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in public school, simply begin homeschooling. No formal withdrawal process is required, though you may want to notify the school. If you later return to public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Connecticut homeschoolers may be able to participate in some public school activities and courses depending on district policy. Contact your school district to inquire about sports, clubs, extracurricular activities, or dual enrollment opportunities.
Special Education
Connecticut allows families with students with special needs to homeschool. If your child has an IEP or qualifies for special education services, coordinate with your district regarding any services you want to maintain.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Keep a monthly or quarterly learning log documenting subjects and topics covered
- Create subject folders with samples of work, writing, and projects
- Maintain a reading list of books read throughout the year in each subject area
- Save receipts and invoices for curriculum and educational materials
- Document field trips, museum visits, classes, and enrichment activities attended
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
Not required by state law. Local districts may request periodic evaluation.
Record Keeping
Not legally required, but recommended to keep 2-3 years of materials for documentation.
Key Facts About Connecticut
Connecticut has no specific homeschool statute; governed by compulsory education law
NOI filing is optional but recommended for documentation
No standardized testing mandated
Local districts may have additional policies
Ages 7-17 must receive instruction
“Every family's homeschool journey in Connecticut is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to file a Notice of Intent in Connecticut?
No. Connecticut does not legally require NOI filing. However, filing one with your local superintendent is recommended to establish documentation of your homeschool program.
What subjects are required in Connecticut?
Connecticut requires instruction in English/language arts, geography, arithmetic, and US history (including state and federal government). You must provide instruction equivalent to public schools.
Does Connecticut require testing?
No. Connecticut does not mandate standardized testing or formal assessments. Your local district may request periodic evaluations, but standardized testing is not required.
What happens if my district has additional requirements?
Connecticut allows local variation. Your school district superintendent may have specific policies. It is wise to communicate with your district and understand their local expectations.
Looking for requirements in another state?