Homeschool Requirements in Georgia

File a Declaration of Intent

Submit a Declaration of Intent to utilize a home study program to the Georgia Department of Education within 30 days after establishing the program. You can file online, by mail, or by fax. By September 1 of each year, you must also file an annual declaration reaffirming your home study program.

• Go to the Georgia DOE website to file online or download the form
• Include your home address and the date you're starting the home study program
• Include each student's information (name, date of birth, grade level)
• Submit electronically, by mail, or by fax
• Receive digital confirmation when you file online

Teach Required Subjects

Georgia requires instruction in several core subjects: reading/language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and physical education. You have complete freedom in choosing your curriculum and teaching methodology. There are no curriculum approval requirements or specific textbooks you must use.

• Reading and language arts include grammar, writing, and literature
• Mathematics covers arithmetic through advanced topics appropriate to your child's grade
• Social studies includes history, geography, and civics
• Science includes life science, earth science, and physical science
• Physical education can be taught at home or through community programs

Meet Minimum Instructional Time Requirements

Your home study program must have a minimum of 180 days of instruction per school year, with at least 4.5 hours of instruction per day. You can structure your schedule however you like—consecutive days, flexible scheduling, or intensive periods.

• 180 days × 4.5 hours = 810 minimum instructional hours per year
• Contact hours are actual instruction time, not including breaks, meals, or free time
• You can concentrate instruction into longer days if you prefer
• The flexibility allows you to accommodate your family's schedule

Assess Your Student's Progress

Students must be evaluated using an appropriate nationally standardized testing program. Evaluations are required at least every three years beginning at the end of third grade (so grades 3, 6, 9, 12, etc.). You can choose which standardized test you use—options include SAT, ACT, Iowa Test of Basic Skills, or others.

• You select which testing program to use
• Tests are typically administered in grades 3, 6, 9, and 12
• Results don't need to be submitted—keep on file
• Testing helps you identify learning gaps and track progress

Write Annual Progress Reports

Each year, the home study program instructor (you) must write a progress assessment report for each student. This report should include your individualized assessment of the student's academic progress in each subject area. These reports are kept at home and not submitted to the state.

• Report should cover each required subject area
• Include assessment of progress, growth areas, and strengths
• Can be narrative, checklist-based, or portfolio-based
• Keep reports for at least three years

Maintain Attendance and Records

Keep daily attendance records showing the dates instruction was provided and the subjects covered. Also maintain samples of your child's work, test results, and progress reports. These records are kept at home for at least three years but are not submitted to the state.

• Track attendance by date on a calendar or in a spreadsheet
• Keep a record showing 180 days of instruction minimum
• File away work samples, tests, and progress assessments
• Organize materials in a way that's easy to review if needed

Renew Your Declaration Annually

Each school year by September 1, submit an annual declaration reaffirming your home study program. This is a simple renewal—you just confirm you're continuing your program.