How to start homeschooling in Arkansas

Everything you need to legally begin homeschooling in Arkansas, broken into clear steps. Plan to spend about an hour completing the paperwork before your first day.

The short version

Arkansas requires annual notice and standardized testing in certain grades, but otherwise gives families substantial flexibility.

The full process, step by step

Step 1

Download the Notice of Intent form from the Arkansas Department of Education website.

Step 2

Submit by August 15 (or 14 days before mid-year withdrawal).

Step 3

Withdraw your child from public school if previously enrolled.

Step 4

Choose curriculum and begin instruction.

Step 5

Refile a Notice of Intent each fall.

Things that help on day one

A binder, folder, or app to keep paperwork in one place.
Your child's most recent report card or academic records.
A simple weekly rhythm sketched out — even one bullet list of subjects per day.
A camera or phone for documenting the first weeks of moments.
A list of any homeschool co-ops, libraries, or community groups in your area.

Disclaimer: This guide summarises commonly known Arkansas homeschool requirements. Laws change. For official, up-to-date legal guidance, consult the HSLDA state guide or your state Department of Education before submitting paperwork.

Read the full Arkansas homeschool law summary →

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