How to homeschool in New York
The rules for 2026–27 in plain words: what to send, when, what to teach and what to keep.
✓ Checked against New York law on Oct 30, 2026 · See what changed
What changed
Nothing since we began checking New York’s own pages every week in October 2026.
- Ages
- 6 to 16
- Notice
- Each year
- Tests
- Each year
- Set time
- 900 hours
What to do
- Notice of intent to your superintendentBy Jul 1 (or within 14 days of starting midyear)New York’s form or page for it
- Individualized home instruction plan (IHIP)By Aug 15 (or within 4 weeks of getting the district’s form)
- First quarterly report (hours, material covered, and a grade or narrative)On the date in your IHIP
- Second quarterly reportOn the date in your IHIP
- Third quarterly reportOn the date in your IHIP
- Fourth quarterly report, with the yearly assessment (a test or a written narrative; a test every other year in grades 4–8, every year in 9–12)On the date in your IHIP
- Teach the subjects belowYou can teach, with no set qualifications. The same as 180 school days: 900 hours, 990 from grade 7. Grades 7–12 need more subjects (English, social studies, math, science, art and music).
- Keep attendance; quarterly reports; assessmentsWhat New York asks you to keep.
Subjects to teach
- Arithmetic
- Reading
- Spelling
- Writing
- English
- Geography
- U.S. history
- Science
- Health
- Music
- Visual arts
- Physical education
- Patriotism and citizenship
- Highway and fire safety
This is a plain summary, not legal advice. Laws change; check with your state or district if you’re unsure. Also see New Mexico, North Carolina, or all 50 states + DC.