How to start homeschooling in New York

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

The short version

New York has the most extensive homeschool reporting in the country: annual plans, quarterly reports, and standardized testing.

The full process, step by step

Step 1

Submit a Letter of Intent by July 1 to your local superintendent.

Step 2

Receive the IHIP form from your district and complete it within 4 weeks.

Step 3

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

Step 4

Submit four quarterly reports throughout the year.

Step 5

Submit an annual assessment (test or narrative) at year-end.

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 New York 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 New York homeschool law summary →

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