Hours / Days
No specific hours/days specified
State Code
MN
Subjects
4 required
Filing Requirements
Letter of Intent
By October 1 or within 15 days of startingFile with your local superintendent. Simple notification of your homeschool program.
How to Comply with Minnesota's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Minnesota
Legal Classification
Home School (Report to Superintendent Required)
Compulsory Education Ages
7-17
Steps to Get Started
File Initial Report with School Superintendent
Minnesota requires that you file an Initial Report to Superintendent form by October 1 of your first year of homeschooling. This report notifies your school district that your child is homeschooling and provides basic program information.
- Obtain the Initial Report form from your school district or Minnesota Department of Education
- Complete the form with your child's information
- Include your child's name, birth date, address, and the date homeschooling begins
- Provide names and qualifications of instructors
- Describe the instructional program and subjects to be taught
- Submit by October 1 of your first year
- Keep a copy for your records
Filing by October 1 ensures you're in compliance and establishes your homeschool's legal status.
Teach Required Subject Areas
Minnesota requires instruction in core subjects including language arts (reading, writing), mathematics, science, and social studies. You have freedom in curriculum choice and teaching methods.
- Language arts includes reading, writing, grammar, and communication
- Mathematics covers grade-appropriate math skills and concepts
- Science includes life science, earth science, and physical science
- Social studies includes history, geography, civics, and cultural understanding
These subjects can be integrated through projects and unit studies, or taught separately.
Administer Annual Standardized Testing
Minnesota requires annual standardized testing. You must administer an approved standardized test (such as SAT, ACT, IOWA, or similar) each year and report the results to your superintendent.
- Choose an approved standardized test program
- Administer the test annually (typically in spring)
- Register for the test early in the school year
- Submit results to your superintendent by September 1 following the test
- Keep test results on file for your records
Spring testing is the most common timing; register by January or February.
Maintain Comprehensive Program Documentation
Keep detailed records of your homeschool program including curriculum materials, instructional schedules, attendance, and assessment results. These documents support your required reports.
- Document the subjects taught and curriculum materials used
- Keep attendance records or instructional schedules
- Maintain evidence of instruction provided
- Save work samples and student work
- Organize all materials for easy access if needed
File Annual Letter of Intent
Each school year after the first year, you must send a letter of intent to the superintendent by October 1. This simple letter confirms you're continuing to homeschool your child.
- Write a brief letter to the superintendent
- Confirm your child's name, birth date, and address
- State that you intend to continue home schooling
- Include testing results from the prior year
- Provide names and qualifications of instructors if changes occurred
- Submit by October 1 each year
The annual letter is straightforward; mark your calendar to avoid missing the deadline.
Design Your Curriculum
With required subjects defined, you have freedom in curriculum and teaching method. Choose materials and approaches that fit your child's learning style and your educational philosophy.
- Select traditional textbooks, online programs, or hands-on materials
- Integrate subjects through projects and unit studies
- Incorporate field trips, tutoring, and enrichment activities
- Adjust pacing and content based on your child's progress
Keep Assessment Records and Progress Documentation
Maintain comprehensive records of testing results, work samples, and progress documentation. These records are kept at home but should be available if the school district requests them.
- Save all standardized test results
- Keep work samples and assignments
- Document your child's growth and achievement
- Maintain curriculum records and instructional materials
- Organize all materials chronologically or by subject
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in public school, file your Initial Report and begin homeschooling. No formal public school withdrawal is required beyond the report. If you later return to public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Minnesota homeschoolers may participate in some public school sports and activities depending on school district policy. Contact your school district's athletic director to inquire about opportunities.
Special Education
Minnesota allows families with students with special needs to homeschool. If your child has an IEP or qualifies for special education, coordinate with your school district about available services.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Keep curriculum documentation showing subjects covered and materials used
- Maintain attendance records or instructional schedules
- Save annual standardized test results and scores
- Keep work samples and student assignments from throughout the year
- Document field trips, enrichment activities, and educational experiences attended
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
Required. Annual standardized test (nationally normed achievement test) required.
Record Keeping
Class schedules, materials used, and assessment methods.
Key Facts About Minnesota
Annual standardized testing is mandatory
30th percentile or lower triggers disability evaluation requirement
Parent does not need teaching license
Other instructors need Minnesota license or bachelor's degree
Ages 5-17 (by September 1 cutoff)
“Every family's homeschool journey in Minnesota is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Letter of Intent in Minnesota?
File a Letter of Intent with your superintendent by October 1 or within 15 days of starting homeschooling. This is an annual requirement.
Why is annual standardized testing required?
Minnesota requires annual testing to monitor student progress. You select the nationally normed standardized test.
What if my child scores below the 30th percentile?
If test scores fall at or below the 30th percentile, Minnesota may request a learning disability evaluation.
Do I need teaching credentials?
Parents teaching their own children do not need teaching credentials. However, if you hire another instructor, they must have a Minnesota teaching license or bachelor's degree.
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