How to start homeschooling in Wisconsin

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

The short version

Wisconsin requires only an annual PI-1206 form. No testing, evaluation, or curriculum approval.

The full process, step by step

Step 1

Submit Form PI-1206 online to the Wisconsin DPI by October 15.

Step 2

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

Step 3

Plan curriculum across the six required subject areas.

Step 4

Track 875 hours of instruction per year.

Step 5

Refile PI-1206 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin homeschool law summary →

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