How to homeschool in Tennessee
The rules for 2026–27 in plain words: what to send, when, what to teach and what to keep.
✓ Checked against Tennessee law on Oct 20, 2026 · See what changed
What changed
Nothing since we began checking Tennessee’s own pages every week in October 2026.
The usual way: As an independent home school. Your notice each year, and tests in grades 5, 7 and 9.
- Ages
- 6 to 17
- Notice
- Each year
- Tests
- Grades 5, 7, 9
- Set time
- 180 days
What to do
- Notice of intent to your superintendentBefore each school yearTennessee’s form or page for it
- A standardized English and math test you choose (nationally normed), given by someone who isn’t a relative, or the state test; results go to your director of schools and the state boardin Grades 5, 7, 9
- Attendance records to your superintendentAt the end of the school year
- Teach your children at homeYou can teach if you have a high school diploma or GED. 180 days a year, 4 hours a day.
- Keep attendanceThat’s all Tennessee asks you to keep.
Other legal ways
With a church-related school
Enroll with a church-related umbrella school.
You can teach as your school asks. Your church-related school sets the days, tests and records.
- Enroll with your church-related school (Before you start, then each year)
With an accredited online school
A distance-learning school accredited for Tennessee families.
You can teach as your school asks. Your online school reports attendance and sets the rest.
- Enroll with your online school (Before you start, then each year)
Sources: tn.gov, capitol.tn.gov, wapp.capitol.tn.gov
This is a plain summary, not legal advice. Laws change; check with your state or district if you’re unsure. Also see South Dakota, Texas, or all 50 states + DC.