How to start homeschooling in Illinois

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

The short version

Illinois treats homeschools as private schools. No registration, no testing, but specific subjects must be taught in English.

The full process, step by step

Step 1

Submit a withdrawal letter to your child's public school if applicable.

Step 2

Plan a curriculum covering all required subject areas in English.

Step 3

Begin teaching — no state notification required.

Step 4

Optionally file the ISBE statement of assurance.

Step 5

Maintain attendance and academic records for your own files.

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 Illinois 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 Illinois homeschool law summary →

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