Start free

How to homeschool in South Carolina

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

✓ Checked against South Carolina law on Oct 20, 2026 · See what changed

What changed

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

The usual way: With an accountability association. The way most South Carolina families homeschool.

Ages
5 to 17
Notice
None
Tests
None
Set time
180 days

What to do

  1. Join (or renew with) an accountability associationEach year
  2. Progress report, with attendance, twice a year (kept, not sent)Midyear and at the end of the year
  3. Teach the subjects belowYou can teach if you have a high school diploma or GED. Your association has 50 or more members, and sets what it checks.
  4. Keep a plan book or diary of subjects and activities; a portfolio of work samples; progress reportsWhat South Carolina asks you to keep.

Subjects to teach

  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Math
  • Science
  • Social studies
  • Composition and literature (grades 7–12)

Other legal ways

With SCAIHS

The South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools.

You can teach if you have a high school diploma or GED. SCAIHS sets its testing and reviews your work.

  • Join (or renew with) SCAIHS (Each year)
With your school district’s approval

Your district’s board approves your homeschool and gives the state tests.

You can teach if you have a high school diploma, GED or college degree. Days of at least 4½ hours, not counting lunch.

  • Application for approval to your school district’s board (Before you start, then each year)
  • The statewide tests, given by district staff (Each year)
  • Progress report to your district (twice a year) (Midyear and at the end of the year)

Source: scstatehouse.gov

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