Hours / Days
No specific requirement
State Code
VA
Subjects
0 required
Filing Requirements
Notice of Intent
By August 15 annuallyFile NOI with your local school division superintendent.
How to Comply with Virginia's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Virginia
Legal Classification
Home Instruction (Four Qualifying Options)
Compulsory Education Ages
5-18
Available Legal Pathways
Option 1: Parent Has High School Diploma or Higher
Parent or guardian holds a high school diploma or higher credential. Submit Notice of Intent by August 15 each year.
Option 2: Certified Teacher
Parent or guardian is a certified teacher. Submit evidence of Virginia teacher certification with Notice of Intent.
Option 3: Structured Curriculum Program
Parent uses an approved program of study through a correspondence course, distance learning provider, or individualized curriculum plan. Submit evidence of enrollment or curriculum plan.
Option 4: Demonstrated Ability
Parent demonstrates ability to provide adequate education through a written statement explaining why they are capable of homeschooling. Submit explanatory letter with Notice of Intent.
Steps to Get Started
Choose Your Virginia Home Instruction Option
Decide which of the four pathways qualifies your situation. Most parents use Option 1 (high school diploma) or Option 3 (curriculum program). Options 2 and 4 offer alternatives for other circumstances.
Ensure you meet at least one of the four options before beginning home instruction.
Submit Notice of Intent by August 15
Each year you provide home instruction, submit a Notice of Intent to your local school division superintendent by August 15. If you begin homeschooling after August 15, notify within 30 days of beginning.
- Contact your superintendent's office for the Notice of Intent form
- Complete the form with your information and child details
- Include evidence of your qualifying option (diploma, certification, curriculum enrollment, or ability statement)
- Mail or deliver to the superintendent's office
- Keep a copy for your records
- Request written confirmation of receipt
Filing by August 15 is cleaner administratively than filing after the school year starts.
Option 3 Only: Provide Curriculum Evidence
If using Option 3, submit evidence of your curriculum provider or detailed plan of study. This can be a receipt from a correspondence course, enrollment documentation from an online school, or your written curriculum plan.
- If using correspondence course: submit receipt or enrollment letter
- If using distance learning: submit enrollment contract or acceptance letter
- If using individualized curriculum: provide detailed list of courses and materials
- Keep supporting documentation
Having curriculum documentation ready when you file makes the process smoother.
Option 4 Only: Write Your Ability Statement
If using Option 4, write a brief letter explaining why you are capable of providing adequate education. Address your background, experience, and approach to homeschooling.
- Explain relevant education or work experience
- Describe your teaching philosophy and approach
- Address how you will cover required subjects
- Include any relevant training or certifications
Be thoughtful and thorough in your explanation—this is what demonstrates your capability.
Design Your Curriculum
Virginia has no mandated subjects for home instruction. You have complete freedom to choose what and how your child learns. Select curricula and subjects based on your child's needs and family values.
- Select core subjects: language arts, math, science, social studies
- Add electives based on interests and goals
- Choose traditional, classical, online, or any approach
- Integrate subjects or teach separately as you prefer
Virginia's freedom in curriculum choice is one of its greatest strengths for homeschoolers.
No Testing or Assessment Required
Virginia does not require standardized testing or formal assessments for home instruction. However, you may choose to assess your child's progress voluntarily.
While not required, many families use assessments informally to track progress and identify gaps.
Maintain Records and Documentation
Keep records showing your child's progress and learning. While not submitted to the state, these records help you track progress and demonstrate educational activity if questions arise.
- Keep work samples and completed assignments
- Document subjects covered and topics studied
- Save optional assessment results or progress reports
- Record attendance or instructional days informally
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in Virginia public school, submit your Notice of Intent and begin home instruction. No formal withdrawal form is needed, but you may want to notify the school. If re-enrolling in public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Participation in Virginia public school activities and athletics varies by school division. Contact your athletic director to learn about eligibility for sports and extracurricular activities.
Special Education
Virginia allows families with students who have special needs to provide home instruction. If your child has an IEP or 504 plan, coordinate with your school division about any services you want to maintain.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Keep your Notice of Intent confirmation letter and filed documentation organized
- Save work samples and projects from each subject area
- Maintain receipts for curriculum and educational materials purchased
- Document field trips, classes, and educational enrichment activities attended
- Record attendance informally to show regular instruction is occurring
Assessment Requirements
No mandated testing. Evidence of achievement required (portfolio, test scores, evaluator assessment).
Record Keeping
Maintain evidence of educational achievement to demonstrate progress.
Key Facts About Virginia
Four parent qualification pathways available
No mandated subjects
No testing requirement
Evidence of achievement required
Ages 5-18
“Every family's homeschool journey in Virginia is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the four parent qualification pathways?
Virginia offers multiple pathways: homeschool diploma, college degree, teaching certification, or completion of an approved homeschool curriculum. Choose the option that fits your situation.
What evidence of achievement is required?
You must demonstrate educational progress. Options include portfolio, standardized test scores, or evaluator assessment. You have flexibility in how you document achievement.
Does Virginia require specific subjects?
No. Virginia does not mandate specific subjects. You have curriculum freedom.
When must I file my Notice of Intent?
File your NOI with your local school division superintendent by August 15 each year.
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