How to start homeschooling in Tennessee

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

The short version

Tennessee offers three homeschool options: independent, church-related school, or accredited online school. The church-related option is most popular.

The full process, step by step

Step 1

Choose your homeschool option (independent, church-related, or accredited).

Step 2

Submit Notice of Intent or enroll with chosen umbrella by August 1.

Step 3

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

Step 4

Track 4 hours/day for 180 days.

Step 5

Complete required testing or umbrella requirements.

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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee homeschool law summary →

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