Hours / Days
9-month school schedule
State Code
NC
Subjects
4 required
Filing Requirements
Notice of Withdrawal + Annual Notification
Within 30 days to DNPEFile notice with Department of Non-Public Education within 30 days.
How to Comply with North Carolina's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in North Carolina
Legal Classification
Home School Program
Compulsory Education Ages
7-16
Steps to Get Started
File Notice of Intent with DNPE Within 30 Days
You must file a Notice of Intent to Operate a Home School with the North Carolina Department of Non-Public Education (DNPE) within 30 days of beginning homeschooling. The filing window is July through April (DNPE does not accept notices in May or June). You must receive written acknowledgment from DNPE before withdrawing your child from public school or beginning homeschooling.
- File through the DNPE portal online
- Include the school name and address (your home address)
- Include the chief administrator name (parent/guardian)
- Submit within 30 days of starting
- Wait for written acknowledgment before withdrawing from public school
Filing early in the school year (July-September) ensures you receive acknowledgment quickly.
Have a Parent with High School Diploma
North Carolina requires that at least one parent or legal guardian have a high school diploma or GED and supervise the home school program. This parent doesn't need any teaching certification, but they must have completed high school.
- Parent/guardian must have high school diploma or GED
- This parent supervises and directs the home school program
- Teaching certification is not required
Most homeschooling families meet this requirement simply by having a diploma.
Teach Required Subjects
North Carolina requires instruction in four core subject areas: reading, spelling, grammar, and mathematics. These are the only state-mandated subjects, though most families also teach science and social studies. You have complete freedom in choosing curriculum and teaching methods.
- Reading (comprehension, literature, phonics as needed)
- Spelling
- Grammar (language mechanics, writing)
- Mathematics (age and grade appropriate)
- Additional subjects like science and social studies are recommended but not mandated
While only four subjects are required, a well-rounded education includes science and social studies.
Administer Annual Standardized Testing
You must have your child tested annually using a nationally standardized achievement test. The test must assess the required subjects (reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics). Testing should be done within the first 12 months of DNPE's acknowledgment of your notice, then annually thereafter. Test results must be kept for at least one year and made available to DNPE if requested.
- Use any nationally recognized standardized test (SAT, ACT, Iowa ITBS, etc.)
- Test must assess reading, spelling, grammar, and mathematics
- Administer once per school year
- Keep test results on file for minimum one year
- Results do not need to be submitted unless DNPE requests them
Spring testing is most common—register early to ensure availability.
Design Your Curriculum
North Carolina has no curriculum approval process and no required textbooks or programs. You have complete freedom in selecting how to teach the required subjects. You can use traditional curricula, classical education, unschooling, online programs, or any approach that covers reading, spelling, grammar, and mathematics.
- No curriculum approval needed
- Any textbooks or materials acceptable
- You determine pace and teaching methods
- Integration or separation of subjects is up to you
North Carolina's flexibility in curriculum allows you to create a personalized education.
Keep Learning Records
Maintain records documenting instruction and your child's progress. While these are not submitted to the state, they demonstrate that instruction is occurring and help you track learning over time.
- Attendance records showing regular instruction
- Samples of completed work and projects
- Test results and assessment documents
- Books read and topics studied
- Receipts for curriculum and materials
Withdrawing from School
File your Notice of Intent with DNPE and wait for written acknowledgment. Only then should you withdraw your child from public school. The acknowledgment letter serves as your proof of legal homeschool status.
Public School Access
North Carolina homeschoolers may be able to participate in some public school activities depending on district policy. Contact your school district's athletic director to inquire about sports and extracurricular participation.
Special Education
North Carolina allows families with students with special needs to homeschool. If your child previously had special education services or an IEP, coordinate with your district about services available.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Save all standardized test results and assessment reports
- Create subject folders with work samples from each required subject area
- Maintain a reading log of books used in instruction
- Document field trips, educational activities, and enrichment classes
- Keep receipts and invoices for curriculum and educational materials purchased
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
Annual standardized testing required. Multiple test options available.
Record Keeping
Maintain attendance records and test results for state review.
Key Facts About North Carolina
Parent needs high school diploma or GED
9-month school schedule requirement
Annual standardized testing required
Ages 7-16
“Every family's homeschool journey in North Carolina is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 9-month school schedule requirement?
You must operate a school calendar of at least 9 months per year with a defined start and end date.
Do I need a high school diploma in North Carolina?
Yes. The parent providing instruction must have a high school diploma or GED.
What standardized testing is required?
Annual standardized testing is required. You can choose from several approved test options.
How do I file with DNPE?
File a Notice of Withdrawal within 30 days of beginning homeschooling with the Department of Non-Public Education.
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