How to homeschool in North Carolina
The rules for 2026–27 in plain words: what to send, when, what to teach and what to keep.
✓ Checked against North Carolina law on Oct 30, 2026 · See what changed
What changed
Nothing since we began checking North Carolina’s own pages every week in October 2026.
- Ages
- 7 to 16
- Notice
- Once
- Tests
- Each year
- Set time
- None
What to do
- Notice of intent to the Division of Non-Public Education (online)When you startNorth Carolina’s form or page for it
- A nationally standardized test in English grammar, reading, spelling and math, kept a yearEach year
- Tell the Division of Non-Public Education your homeschool has closedOnly if you stop or move away
- Teach your children at homeYou can teach if you have a high school diploma or GED. School at least nine months a year.
- Keep attendance; immunization records; test results, a yearWhat North Carolina asks you to keep.
Sources: doa.nc.gov, doa.nc.gov
This is a plain summary, not legal advice. Laws change; check with your state or district if you’re unsure. Also see New York, North Dakota, or all 50 states + DC.