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How to homeschool in Iowa

The rules for 2026–27 in plain words: what to send, when, what to teach and what to keep.

✓ Checked against Iowa law on Oct 30, 2026 · See what changed

What changed

Nothing since we began checking Iowa’s own pages every week in October 2026.

The usual way: Independent private instruction. The way most Iowa families homeschool: nothing to file.

Ages
6 to 16
Notice
None
Tests
None
Set time
None

What to do

  1. Report on your instruction to your superintendent or area education agencyOnly if they ask in writing
  2. Teach the subjects belowYou can teach, with no set qualifications. No notice or tests, unless your district asks for a report.

Subjects to teach

  • Math
  • Reading and language arts
  • Science
  • Social studies

Other legal ways

Private instruction, nothing sent

Competent private instruction, with no reports.

You can teach, with no set qualifications. No notice or tests; keep your plan and course of study.

Private instruction, with a yearly assessment

Form A to your district, and an assessment each year.

You can teach, with no set qualifications. 37 days each quarter. Assessed by a test above the 30th percentile, a teacher’s portfolio review, or a report card.

  • Form A to your school district (By Sep 1 (starting midyear: in part within 14 days, in full within 30))
  • Evidence of vaccinations and a blood lead test to your school district (When you start)
  • Yearly assessment results to your school district and the Iowa Department of Education (Done by May 31, sent by Aug 1)
Private instruction, with a supervising teacher

Form A, and visits from an Iowa-licensed teacher.

You can teach, with an Iowa-licensed teacher supervising. 37 days each quarter. The teacher meets you twice every 45 school days, once in person.

  • Form A to your school district (By Sep 1 (starting midyear: in part within 14 days, in full within 30))
  • Evidence of vaccinations and a blood lead test to your school district (When you start)
  • Visits from your supervising teacher (Twice every 45 school days)
With your district’s home school program

A home school assistance program your district runs.

You can teach, with a district teacher helping. 37 days each quarter; your district sets the testing.

  • Form A to your school district (By Sep 15 (starting midyear: in part within 14 days, in full within 30))

Source: educate.iowa.gov

This is a plain summary, not legal advice. Laws change; check with your state or district if you’re unsure. Also see Indiana, Kansas, or all 50 states + DC.