How to start homeschooling in South Carolina

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

The short version

South Carolina offers three homeschool options: district approval, SCAIHS membership, or third-option association membership.

The full process, step by step

Step 1

Choose your homeschool option (Options 1, 2, or 3).

Step 2

Apply for approval or membership with your chosen path.

Step 3

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

Step 4

Plan a 180-day curriculum covering required subjects.

Step 5

Maintain plan book, portfolio, and semester reports.

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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina homeschool law summary →

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