Hours / Days
180 days per year minimum
State Code
SC
Subjects
6 required
Filing Requirements
Three Options: District Approval, SCAIHS Membership, or Association Membership
Varies by optionChoose your pathway and file accordingly. Each has different requirements and timelines.
How to Comply with South Carolina's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in South Carolina
Legal Classification
Home Schooling (Three Options Available)
Compulsory Education Ages
5-17
Available Legal Pathways
Option 1: Local School District Approval
Pursue home instruction directly through your local school district. Contact the board of trustees to learn about their application process, curriculum requirements, and any local policies.
Option 2: South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS)
Enroll through SCAIHS, a state-recognized homeschool association providing educational counseling, record-keeping services, and accountability. SCAIHS handles record submission and oversight.
Option 3: Homeschool Association (50+ Members)
Join any homeschool association with a minimum of 50 member families. The association provides structure and accountability while you maintain teaching responsibility.
Steps to Get Started
Choose Your South Carolina Homeschooling Option
Decide which of the three state-recognized pathways works best for your family. Option 1 works directly with your school district, Option 2 uses SCAIHS (a Christian-based association), and Option 3 lets you join any qualifying homeschool association. Each option has different levels of structure and support.
Most South Carolina families choose Option 3 because there are many established homeschool associations offering community and support.
Verify Parent Qualifications
South Carolina requires that the parent/guardian providing instruction holds at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Ensure you have the required credential before enrolling.
If you don't have a diploma or GED, check with your chosen option about alternatives or support available.
Complete 180 Days of Instruction
Provide at least 180 days of instruction per school year, with a minimum of 4.5 hours of instruction per day. This equals approximately 810 instructional hours annually. You can structure your schedule flexibly—days don't need to be consecutive.
- 180 days of actual instruction time, not including breaks or free time
- 4.5 hours is contact time when your child is actively engaged in learning
- You can concentrate instruction into longer days if preferred
- Flexible scheduling allows you to accommodate your family's needs
Most South Carolina homeschools average 4-5 instructional hours daily, leaving flexibility for enrichment and life.
Meet Assessment Requirements by Option
Assessment requirements vary by option. Option 1 has district-specific requirements, Option 2 (SCAIHS) handles assessment, and Option 3 uses the association's requirements. Verify what your specific option requires.
- Option 1: School district determines assessment method
- Option 2: SCAIHS provides assessment guidelines
- Option 3: Your homeschool association specifies assessment approach
- Assessment typically involves standardized testing or evaluation
Understanding your option's assessment requirements early helps you plan throughout the school year.
Design Your Curriculum and Subjects
South Carolina does not mandate specific subjects or curriculum. You have freedom to choose what and how your child learns. Select curricula aligned with your educational philosophy and your child's learning style.
- Choose traditional, classical, Charlotte Mason, or any other approach
- Use textbooks, online programs, unit studies, or any combination
- Include core subjects (math, language arts, science, social studies) but define them your way
- Integrate subjects through projects or teach separately as you prefer
South Carolina's freedom in curriculum selection is a major advantage for custom-tailored education.
Maintain Records and Documentation
Keep records documenting attendance, instruction provided, and assessment results. Requirements and submission procedures vary by option, so follow your specific option's guidelines for record-keeping and submission.
- Track attendance showing 180 instructional days minimum
- Document subjects covered and learning activities
- Save assessment results and progress evaluations
- Maintain work samples and portfolio evidence
Submit Records According to Your Option's Process
Depending on your option, you may submit records to the school district, SCAIHS, or your homeschool association. Follow your specific option's submission timeline and procedures.
Your chosen option will provide clear guidance on what records to keep and when to submit them.
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in public school, begin the home instruction process through your chosen option. No formal withdrawal form is typically needed, but notify the school that your child is being withdrawn for homeschooling.
Public School Access
Participation in public school activities and athletics varies by district and sport. Contact your school district's athletic director to learn about eligibility and opportunities for homeschooled students.
Special Education
South Carolina allows families with students who have special education needs to use any of the three homeschooling options. If your child has an existing IEP, coordinate with your school district about continuing services or support.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Use a calendar, spreadsheet, or planner to track 180 instructional days
- Create subject folders with work samples from each area of study
- Keep assessment results, progress reports, and evaluation documents organized
- Save receipts for curriculum and educational materials purchased
- Document field trips, classes, and enrichment activities attended
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
Varies by option. Option 1 (district approval) and SCAIHS require standardized testing in grades 3-11 annually. Optional for association membership.
Record Keeping
Required for all options.
Key Facts About South Carolina
Three distinct legal paths with different requirements
SCAIHS is faith-based with fees
Association option is most popular with no testing
4.5 hours per day; 180 days per year
Parent needs high school diploma or GED
Ages 5-17
“Every family's homeschool journey in South Carolina is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three pathways in South Carolina?
Option 1: District approval (requires testing). Option 2: SCAIHS membership (faith-based, requires fees). Option 3: Homeschool association membership (most popular, no testing required).
Which pathway is most popular?
The homeschool association option is most popular because it avoids testing requirements and is more flexible.
Do I need a high school diploma?
Yes. In South Carolina, the parent providing instruction must have a high school diploma or GED.
What about the 4.5 hours per day requirement?
You must provide 4.5 hours of instruction per day on average, totaling 180 days per year.
Looking for requirements in another state?