Hours / Days
No requirement
State Code
IL
Subjects
6 required
How to Comply with Illinois's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Illinois
Legal Classification
Home School (Private Education)
Compulsory Education Ages
6-17
Steps to Get Started
Understand Illinois' Private School Classification
In Illinois, homeschooling is treated as private education. There is no state registration, notification requirement, or approval process. You are not required to register, file any paperwork, or notify the school district. You simply begin homeschooling—that's all that's required legally.
Illinois' hands-off approach gives you maximum autonomy and flexibility in designing your child's education.
If Currently Enrolled in Public School: Withdraw Your Child
If your child is enrolled in an Illinois public school, complete the school's formal withdrawal process. Contact your school's enrollment office and submit a withdrawal form. Once this is done, you can begin homeschooling immediately.
- Request the withdrawal form from the school's enrollment or main office
- Complete the form with your child's information
- Submit the form in person or by mail
- Ask for a receipt or confirmation of withdrawal
- Keep a copy for your records
Teach Required Subject Areas
Illinois law requires instruction in the branches of education taught in public schools, which are: language arts (reading, writing, grammar), mathematics, biological and physical science, social science (history, civics, geography), fine arts (visual arts, music), and physical development and health. You choose how to teach and what curriculum to use.
- Language arts includes reading, writing, speaking, grammar, and literature
- Mathematics covers grade-appropriate math concepts and skills
- Biological and physical science includes life science, earth science, and physics
- Social science includes history, geography, civics, economics, and cultural studies
- Fine arts includes visual art, music, drama, or media
- Physical development and health covers fitness, health education, and wellness
These subject areas can be integrated through projects and unit studies, or taught separately—you have flexibility in approach.
Provide Instruction in English
All instruction must be provided in the English language. This is the only language requirement—you don't need to use English-only curricula, but the primary language of instruction must be English.
You can supplement with foreign language study, but your core instruction must be delivered in English.
No Mandated Testing or Hours
Illinois does not require standardized testing, specific hour requirements, attendance records, curriculum approval, or submission of any reports. You have complete freedom in how much time you dedicate to learning and how you assess progress.
- No mandated days per year or hours per day requirements
- No standardized testing required
- No curriculum approval needed
- No progress reports to submit
- No parent certification or qualifications required
Some families dedicate 4-6 hours daily to structured learning; others take a more flexible approach—both are legal.
Design Your Educational Program
With minimal state requirements, you have exceptional freedom to create an education that fits your child's learning style and your family's values. Choose from traditional curriculum, online programs, classical education, unschooling, or any combination.
- Select curriculum materials that align with your philosophy
- Decide on a schedule that works for your family
- Incorporate field trips, community learning, and enrichment activities
- Adjust pacing and content based on your child's progress
Keep Personal Records and Learning Documentation
While Illinois doesn't require any records to be filed with the state, it's wise to maintain records for your own planning and progress tracking. These also serve as documentation if anyone ever questions your child's education.
- Keep a learning log of subjects and topics covered
- Save work samples, essays, projects, and assignments
- Document field trips and educational activities attended
- Track books read and major learning milestones
- Organize materials in a way that's easy to access and review
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in public school, simply complete the school's withdrawal form. No notification to the district about homeschooling is required. If you later want to re-enroll in public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Illinois homeschoolers may participate in some public school sports and activities depending on school district policy. Contact your local school district's athletic director or principal to inquire about opportunities for homeschooled students.
Special Education
Illinois allows families with students with special needs to homeschool. If your child has been identified for special education services, coordinate with your school district about available services and IEP options you want to maintain.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Maintain a learning journal or curriculum log documenting subjects taught and topics covered
- Create subject-based folders with samples of work, essays, and completed assignments
- Keep receipts and invoices for all curriculum and educational materials purchased
- Document field trips, museum visits, educational classes, and cultural activities attended
- Save evidence of learning such as portfolios, projects, photos, and achievement records
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
No testing required. Parents assess their child's progress.
Record Keeping
No record-keeping required by law.
Key Facts About Illinois
One of 12 states with virtually no enforced regulations
No filing, notification, or testing requirements
No specific hour or day requirements
Complete curriculum freedom
HB 2827 (proposed) would change this, but has not passed
“Every family's homeschool journey in Illinois is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register or file anything with Illinois?
No. Illinois does not require any filing, registration, or formal notification to begin or continue homeschooling.
What subjects must I teach in Illinois?
While Illinois law lists certain subjects (language arts, math, science, social sciences, fine arts, PE), there is virtually no enforcement. You have significant freedom in curriculum selection.
Does Illinois require testing?
No. Illinois does not mandate testing or formal assessments for homeschoolers.
What about proposed legislation like HB 2827?
HB 2827 has been proposed but has not become law. Illinois homeschooling remains virtually unregulated. However, it is wise to monitor proposed legislation.
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