Hours / Days
CPI Option 2 (without licensed teacher): 148 days per year, 37 days per quarter. IPI and CPI Option 1: no specific day/hour requirement.
State Code
IA
Subjects
5 required
Filing Requirements
Independent Private Instruction (IPI) or Competent Private Instruction (CPI)
At beginning of programFile with your local school district. Choose your pathway (IPI or CPI) based on your situation.
How to Comply with Iowa's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Iowa
Legal Classification
Competent Private Instruction (CPI) and Other Options
Compulsory Education Ages
6-16
Available Legal Pathways
CPI Option 1 (Parent-Directed with Teacher Supervision)
Parent provides instruction with supervision of an Iowa-licensed teacher selected by the parent. File Form A with the school district; no annual assessment required.
CPI Option 2 (Parent-Directed Without License)
Parent provides instruction without a teaching license. File Form A with the school district; requires annual assessment of student progress.
ICEA (Iowa Christian Educators Association)
Enroll in the ICEA program, which provides oversight and curriculum guidance for a structured homeschool experience.
Private School Enrollment
Enroll in a brick-and-mortar private school that offers homeschool programs or satellite education options.
Certified Teacher Instruction
Hire a certified teacher to provide instruction. Requires documentation of instruction and communication with the school district.
Steps to Get Started
Choose Your Iowa Homeschooling Option
Iowa offers multiple pathways for homeschooling. The most popular is CPI (Competent Private Instruction), which allows parents to provide instruction either with or without a licensed teacher's supervision. Each option has different filing and assessment requirements.
- CPI Option 1: Parent teaches with Iowa-licensed teacher supervision
- CPI Option 2: Parent teaches without teacher license
- ICEA: Structured homeschool organization with curriculum support
- Private school or certified teacher options are also available
Most Iowa families choose CPI Option 1 or 2 because they offer flexibility and minimal oversight.
For CPI Option 1 or 2: File Form A with School District
If choosing CPI, complete Form A (Competent Private Instruction form) and submit two copies to your resident school district by September 1. This form notifies the district of your homeschool arrangement.
- Obtain the CPI Form A from your school district or Iowa Department of Education
- Complete the form with your child's information and your homeschool details
- If using Option 1, identify your Iowa-licensed teacher supervisor
- Submit two copies to the district superintendent by September 1
- Keep copies for your records
Filing by September 1 ensures you're in compliance and gives you clarity on what's expected for the year.
Meet the 148-Day Instruction Requirement
Iowa requires at least 148 days of instruction per school year, with a minimum of 37 days per quarter. You can structure your calendar in various ways as long as you meet this threshold.
- Total: 148 days minimum per school year
- Distribution: At least 37 days each quarter
- Flexibility: You can concentrate days into longer blocks or spread throughout the year
- Make-up: Weather days, holidays, and vacations can be adjusted to meet 148 days
Planning your calendar by quarter helps you stay on track and ensure you hit the 148-day requirement.
Select Your Curriculum
Iowa has no mandated curriculum or textbook requirements. You have complete freedom to choose traditional curriculum, online programs, unit studies, classical education, or any approach that works for your child.
- Select curriculum aligned with your educational philosophy
- Use textbooks, online programs, hands-on materials, or any combination
- Incorporate field trips, tutoring, and enrichment as desired
- Adjust materials and pacing based on your child's learning style
For CPI Option 2: Arrange Annual Assessment
If you're using CPI Option 2 (parent-taught without a licensed teacher supervisor), you must provide evidence of student progress annually. Assessment can be through standardized testing, portfolio review by an Iowa-licensed teacher, or end-of-year reports from a correspondence school.
- Standardized test: Administer approved standardized test in spring
- Portfolio review: Compile work samples and have reviewed by Iowa-licensed teacher
- Correspondence school: Use accredited correspondence program with built-in reporting
Spring is the best time for standardized testing; register early in the school year.
Keep Attendance and Progress Records
Maintain records showing the 148 instructional days and evidence of progress in required subject areas. These records are kept at home and not submitted unless requested by the school district.
- Track attendance by date on a calendar or spreadsheet
- Keep work samples and completed assignments
- Document assessment results if using Option 2
- Organize materials for easy reference if needed
Teach Required Subject Areas
Iowa requires instruction in language arts (reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. You have freedom in curriculum choice but must cover these core areas.
- Language arts includes reading, writing, grammar, and literature
- Mathematics covers grade-appropriate math skills
- Science includes life science, earth science, and physical science
- Social studies includes history, geography, civics, and cultural understanding
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in public school, file Form A to begin your CPI program. No additional withdrawal process is needed. If you later return to public school, notify the school district.
Public School Access
Iowa homeschoolers may participate in some public school activities and dual enrollment opportunities depending on district policy. Contact your school district about sports, clubs, and courses available to homeschooled students.
Special Education
Iowa allows families with students with special needs to pursue homeschooling through CPI or other options. If your child has an IEP or qualifies for special education, coordinate with your school district about services.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Use a calendar or spreadsheet to track 148 instructional days per year
- Create subject-based folders with work samples from each area
- Keep assessment results, test scores, or portfolio evaluation documentation
- Save receipts for curriculum and educational materials purchased
- Document field trips, classes attended, and enrichment activities
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
IPI has no initial testing. CPI may have testing per program.
Record Keeping
IPI: records may be requested in writing by school district. CPI: more detailed records required.
Key Facts About Iowa
Two distinct pathways (IPI and CPI) with different requirements
IPI allows up to 4 unrelated students
CPI requires a qualified instructor
148 days per year minimum
Dual enrollment with CPI is available
“Every family's homeschool journey in Iowa is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between IPI and CPI?
IPI (Independent Private Instruction) allows a parent to teach up to 4 unrelated students with minimal oversight. CPI (Competent Private Instruction) requires a qualified instructor and has more requirements but offers more flexibility in some areas.
How many days of instruction does Iowa require?
Iowa requires 148 instructional days per year, with a minimum of 37 days per quarter.
Can I teach multiple families' children under IPI?
Yes, IPI allows you to teach up to 4 unrelated students. This is useful for co-op situations.
Does Iowa require testing under IPI?
IPI does not have initial testing requirements. CPI may have testing depending on the specific program.
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