Last updated: January 2026 · Approx. 6 minute read
Homeschool Laws in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee offers three homeschool options: independent, church-related school, or accredited online school. The church-related option is most popular.
Quick facts at a glance
Notification & registration
Option 1 (independent): Submit Notice of Intent to LEA by August 1. Option 2 (church-related): Enroll with a church-related umbrella school. Option 3: Enroll in an accredited online school.
Required subjects in Tennessee
Tennessee requires homeschool families to cover the following subject areas:
- No specific subjects mandated for independent option
Hours & days of instruction
4 hours per day, 180 days per year
Evaluations & testing
Independent option: standardized testing in grades 5, 7, and 9. Church-related option: set by the umbrella school.
Recordkeeping requirements
Maintain attendance records.
Legal homeschool options in Tennessee
How to start homeschooling in Tennessee
- Choose your homeschool option (independent, church-related, or accredited).
- Submit Notice of Intent or enroll with chosen umbrella by August 1.
- Submit a withdrawal letter to your child's public school if applicable.
- Track 4 hours/day for 180 days.
- Complete required testing or umbrella requirements.
Notes & nuances
The church-related school option (Option 2) is widely used because it removes most state oversight.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Tennessee church-related school?
An umbrella school option that handles state reporting and exempts families from independent option requirements.
When is the Tennessee Notice of Intent due?
By August 1 each year for the independent option.
How many hours per day must Tennessee homeschoolers complete?
4 hours per day, 180 days per year.
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