How to Start Homeschooling in Arkansas: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

How to start homeschooling in Arkansas is simpler than many expect. Though it my feel overwhelming, Arkansas offers one of the most flexible environments for families who want to take control of their children’s education. Arkansas requires children ages 5 to 17 to attend school, and parents can meet this requirement by filing a simple Notice of Intent to homeschool with no teacher qualifications, state-mandated subjects, or assessment requirements.

You have significant freedom in how you approach your child’s education in Arkansas. The state trusts parents to make the best decisions for their children’s learning without imposing strict curriculum standards or testing mandates.

This guide will walk you through the legal requirements, help you understand your options for curriculum and support, and show you how to maintain proper records. You’ll also learn about preparing your homeschooled student for high school graduation and college admission, plus find answers to common questions that Arkansas homeschooling families ask.

Understanding Homeschooling in Arkansas Laws

Arkansas homeschooling law requires children ages 5-17 to attend school through public, private, or home education options. Recent changes have simplified notification requirements and removed some waiting periods for families starting mid-year.

Arkansas Compulsory School Age Requirements

Arkansas law requires all children to attend school from age 5 through 17. Your child must be enrolled if they turn 5 on or before August 1st of that school year.

You have three legal options to meet this requirement:

• Public school
• Private or parochial school
• Homeschooling

Children must continue their education until they reach 17 years old. This applies whether you choose traditional schooling or decide to homeschool in Arkansas.

The state treats homeschooling as an equal option to traditional schools. You can switch between these options during your child’s education as long as you follow proper procedures.

Overview of Homeschooling in Arkansas Law Changes

Arkansas homeschool laws have changed in recent years to make homeschooling easier for families. In 2021, the state reduced the waiting period from 14 days to 5 days when pulling children from public school to start homeschooling.

Driver’s license requirements also changed in 2019. Students no longer need to submit proof of schooling when applying for a learner’s permit or driver’s license. This removed the old requirement for notarized homeschool documentation.

These changes show Arkansas becoming more supportive of homeschooling families. The state has simplified processes while keeping basic notification requirements in place.

Differences Between Homeschooling and Other School Options

Homeschooling in Arkansas gives you complete control over your child’s education. You choose the curriculum, schedule, and teaching methods that work best for your family.

Key differences include:

Homeschooling	Public/Private School
Parent chooses curriculum	School sets curriculum
Flexible daily schedule	Fixed school hours
No standardized testing required	Regular testing required
Annual notification to district	Automatic enrollment

Public and private schools must follow state curriculum standards. Homeschooling families have freedom to customize their approach.

You’re responsible for your child’s entire education when homeschooling. This includes planning lessons, tracking progress, and maintaining records.

Arkansas homeschooling laws require only basic notification. You don’t need teaching credentials or specific qualifications to homeschool your children.

Filing the Notice of Intent to Homeschool

Arkansas law requires all homeschool families to file a Notice of Intent to Homeschool each school year. You must submit this form between June 1st and August 15th, and you can complete it online or on paper through your local school district.

Notice of Intent Submission Process

You have two options for submitting your Notice of Intent to Homeschool in Arkansas. You can complete the form online or use a paper form.

Online Submission:

• Create an account on the Arkansas Department of Education online system
• First-time users need to register for a new account
• Returning users can log in with existing credentials
• Use a desktop or laptop computer for best results
• Avoid phones or tablets when filling out the form

Paper Submission:

• Download and print the NOI form from the state website
• Complete all required sections
• Submit to your resident school district by mail, hand delivery, or electronic submission
• Keep a photocopy for your records

The Arkansas Department of Education recommends using the latest version of Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox for online submissions.

Important Deadlines for Filing

Arkansas has specific deadlines you must follow when filing your Notice of Intent to Homeschool.

Key Dates:

• June 1st – First day NOI forms are accepted for the upcoming school year
• August 15th – Final deadline for NOI submission
• August 15th – Last day to select optional state-funded PSAT or ACT testing

If you submit your Notice of Intent after August 15th, your child may face a 5-day waiting period before leaving public school. The superintendent or local school board can waive this waiting period if you request it.

Forms submitted before June 1st will be processed for the previous school year, not the upcoming one.

Information Required on the Notice of Intent

Your Notice of Intent to Homeschool must include specific information about your child and educational plans.

Required Information:

• Student’s full name and date of birth
• Parent or guardian contact information
• Current grade level
• Resident school district
• Academic year you plan to homeschool

You must sign the Notice of Intent in front of a notary if your child plans to pursue a GED. Incomplete forms will not be accepted by school districts.

The form also allows you to select optional standardized testing. You can choose PSAT for 10th graders or ACT for 11th graders at no cost. Advanced Placement exams are available but may include fees.

Meeting State Homeschool Requirements

Arkansas homeschooling law sets clear rules for instruction time, parent duties, and what subjects to teach. You must follow these requirements to homeschool legally in your state.

Instructional Time and Attendance

Arkansas requires homeschooled children to receive at least six hours of instruction per day for a minimum of 178 days per year. This matches the same schedule as public schools in the state.

You can spread these six hours throughout the day. The time doesn’t have to happen all at once. Many families split instruction into morning and afternoon sessions.

Attendance tracking is your responsibility. Keep detailed records of:

• Daily instruction hours
• Dates of instruction
• Subjects taught each day

Arkansas homeschooling law requires you to maintain these records for at least three years. Store them in a safe place where you can access them quickly if needed.

You have flexibility in how you count instructional time. Field trips, educational games, and hands-on learning all count toward your daily hours.

Parent Qualifications and Responsibilities

Arkansas does not require parents to have teaching degrees or special training to homeschool their children. Any parent or guardian can provide homeschool instruction.

Your main duties include:

• Filing a Notice of Intent with your local school district
• Providing daily instruction
• Keeping accurate records
• Ensuring your child learns required subjects

You must submit a new Notice of Intent each school year by August 15th. This form tells the school district you plan to homeschool your child.

The state trusts parents to make good choices about their children’s education. You choose the teaching methods that work best for your family.

Curriculum and Subject Recommendations

Arkansas homeschooling law requires instruction in these core subjects:

• Reading and language arts
• Mathematics
• Social studies (including civics and Arkansas history)
• Science
• Fine arts
• Career focus (for grades 6-12)

You choose your own curriculum and materials. The state does not approve or require specific programs.

Popular curriculum choices include:

• Online programs
• Textbook-based courses
• Unit studies
• Literature-based learning

Your child must learn about Arkansas history at some point during their education. This can happen in any grade you choose.

The state does not require standardized testing for homeschooled students. You decide how to measure your child’s progress and learning.

Recordkeeping and Assessment Practices

Arkansas law requires you to maintain records as a homeschool parent, though the state doesn’t mandate specific testing or assessment methods. You have flexibility in how you document your child’s education and track their progress.

Maintaining Homeschool Records

You must keep detailed records of your homeschool activities. These records serve as proof that you’re providing education to your child.

Essential records to maintain include:

• Attendance records – Track school days and hours
• Curriculum records – List of textbooks and materials used
• Academic progress – Samples of your child’s work
• Medical records – Immunization records and health information

Keep records organized by school year. Store them in a safe place where you can easily access them.

Your homeschool operates as a private school under Arkansas law. This means you’re responsible for all academic documentation.

Save work samples from different subjects throughout the year. Photos of projects and activities also count as valid records.

The Arkansas Department of Education doesn’t specify how long to keep records. Most experts suggest keeping them until your child graduates or turns 21.

Voluntary Testing and Assessments

Arkansas doesn’t require homeschooled students to take standardized tests. You can choose whether to use formal assessments.

Many parents use testing to track progress. Popular options include achievement tests and grade-level assessments.

Benefits of voluntary testing:

• Shows academic progress over time
• Helps identify learning gaps
• Provides documentation for college applications
• Gives you confidence in your teaching

You can purchase tests online or through homeschool organizations. Some local groups offer group testing sessions.

Portfolio assessments work well instead of formal tests. Collect your child’s work samples and projects throughout the year.

Remember that testing results become part of your permanent records. Choose assessment methods that fit your family’s educational goals.

Curriculum, Resources, and Support Networks

Arkansas homeschoolers have access to many curriculum options, state resources, and local support networks. The Arkansas Education Alliance and other organizations provide guidance on materials and legal requirements while local groups offer community connections.

Choosing Homeschool Curriculum and Materials

You can choose from many curriculum types for your Arkansas homeschool. Online programs, textbook-based curricula, and unit studies are popular options.

Popular Curriculum Types:

• Online programs – Complete courses with videos and assignments
• Traditional textbooks – Subject-specific books with lesson plans
• Unit studies – Topic-based learning across multiple subjects
• Charlotte Mason – Literature-rich approach with living books

Arkansas does not require specific curriculum choices. You must teach reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. Art, career focus, and physical education are also required.

Free resources can supplement your curriculum. Khan Academy offers free math and science courses. Library books provide literature and research materials.

You should match curriculum to your child’s learning style. Visual learners may prefer programs with videos and graphics. Hands-on learners often do well with unit studies and experiments.

Utilizing State and Local Homeschool Resources

Arkansas offers several state resources for homeschooling families. The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education provides homeschool registration and legal guidelines.

Key State Resources:

• Arkansas Virtual Academy – Free online public charter school option
• Arkansas State Parks – Educational programs and field trips
• Regional Library Systems – Reading programs and science workshops

The Arkansas Education Alliance helps families understand homeschool laws. They offer curriculum guidance and host events like Homeschool Day at the Capitol.

Local libraries provide valuable support. The Central Arkansas Library System and Fayetteville Public Library offer homeschool programs. Many libraries have dedicated homeschool days with special activities.

State parks like Petit Jean and Pinnacle Mountain host nature and history programs. These field trips meet educational standards and provide hands-on learning experiences.

Homeschool Support Groups and Co-ops

Local support groups provide community connections for Arkansas homeschoolers. These groups offer shared resources, social activities, and parent support.

Popular Support Organizations:

• Arkansas Homeschool Alliance – Statewide support with local group directory
• Christian Home Educators Summit of Arkansas – Annual conference and networking
• Local Facebook groups – Online communities by region

Co-ops allow families to share teaching duties. Parents take turns teaching different subjects to groups of children. This reduces individual workload and provides social interaction.

Support groups organize field trips, park days, and educational events. Children can participate in group activities while parents share advice and resources.

Facebook groups connect you with local homeschoolers. Natural State Homeschoolers serves Central Arkansas families. Arkansas Homeschool Support provides statewide connections.

Many groups meet regularly for activities. Some focus on specific ages or interests like science clubs or book discussions.

Preparing for High School Graduation and Beyond

Arkansas homeschoolers have the freedom to create their own graduation requirements and issue diplomas. You’ll need to track credits, maintain detailed transcripts, and understand college admission processes to set your teen up for success.

Setting Graduation Requirements and Issuing Diplomas

Arkansas does not require homeschoolers to follow public school graduation requirements. This gives you complete flexibility to design your teen’s path to graduation.

Most homeschool families aim for 22-24 credits across core subjects. You should include:

• English: 4 credits
• Math: 3-4 credits
• Science: 3-4 credits
• Social Studies/History: 3-4 credits
• Electives: 6-8 credits

You can adjust these numbers based on your child’s goals and interests. College-bound students may need more math and science credits.

Creating a diploma is your responsibility as the parent. You have the legal authority to issue a homeschool diploma when your child completes your requirements. The Arkansas Department of Education does not issue diplomas to homeschoolers.

Make your diploma look professional. Include your child’s name, graduation date, and your signature as the school administrator.

Maintaining Transcripts and Applying to College

Detailed transcripts are essential for college applications and job opportunities. Start keeping records from ninth grade onward during your homeschooling journey.

Your transcript should include:

• Course names and descriptions
• Credit hours earned
• Letter grades or numeric scores
• GPA calculation
• Extracurricular activities

Arkansas colleges treat homeschool applicants the same as traditional students. However, your documentation needs to be thorough since you don’t have a school registrar.

Standardized test scores become more important for homeschoolers. Plan for your teen to take the SAT or ACT. These scores help colleges evaluate academic readiness.

Start the college application process early. Research specific requirements for each school your teen wants to attend. Some may ask for additional documentation or portfolios.

Accessing Scholarships and Dual Enrollment Opportunities

Arkansas offers Educational Savings Accounts (ESAs) that may help fund your homeschool expenses. Check current eligibility requirements with the Arkansas Department of Education.

Dual enrollment programs let high school students earn college credits. Many Arkansas community colleges and universities accept homeschoolers. Contact admissions offices to learn about their specific requirements.

Merit-based scholarships are available to homeschoolers. Your teen can compete for the same state and institutional scholarships as traditional students. Strong test scores and transcripts are key.

Local community organizations often offer scholarships too. Research opportunities through:

• Rotary clubs
• Churches
• Professional associations
• Local businesses

Document all volunteer work and leadership activities. These experiences strengthen scholarship applications and college admissions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many Arkansas families have specific questions about legal requirements, filing procedures, program options, and financial support when starting their homeschool journey. Understanding these details helps parents make informed decisions and comply with state laws.

What are the legal requirements to begin homeschooling in Arkansas?

You must enroll children who turn five by August 1st in some form of education. This includes public, private, parochial, or home school options.

Children must attend school through age 17. Arkansas considers homeschooling a legal form of education under state law.

You need to provide instruction in core subjects. These typically include reading, writing, mathematics, social studies, and science.

Your homeschool must operate for the same number of days as public schools. This is usually around 178 instructional days per year.

What steps must I follow to file a Notice of Intent to homeschool in Arkansas?

Arkansas does not require you to file a Notice of Intent with the state. This sets Arkansas apart from many other states that mandate formal notification.

You do not need to register with your local school district. You also do not need approval from any government agency to begin homeschooling.

If you are withdrawing your child from public school, notify the school of your intent to homeschool. This helps avoid truancy issues.

Keep records of your homeschool activities. Good documentation protects you if questions arise about your child’s education.

How can I find accredited homeschool programs in Arkansas?

Several online programs offer accredited curricula for Arkansas families. Research programs that align with your child’s learning style and your teaching preferences.

Check if programs are accredited by recognized agencies. Regional accreditation often carries more weight than national accreditation.

Contact local homeschool groups for recommendations. Other families can share their experiences with different programs.

Many programs offer trial periods or sample lessons. Test programs before making long-term commitments.

Which homeschool programs in Arkansas are considered the best?

The best program depends on your child’s needs and your family’s situation. Consider your child’s learning style, your teaching comfort level, and your budget.

Popular options include online academies, unit study programs, and traditional textbook curricula. Each approach has different benefits.

Some families prefer structured programs with detailed lesson plans. Others choose flexible curricula that allow more customization.

Research programs thoroughly and read reviews from other Arkansas families. What works for one family may not work for another.

What financial assistance is available for homeschooling families in Arkansas?

Arkansas offers Education Freedom Accounts through the LEARNS Act. These accounts provide financial support for eligible families.

EFA funds can be used for homeschool curricula, tutoring, and educational materials. Check eligibility requirements and application procedures.

Some families qualify for tax deductions on educational expenses. Consult a tax professional for specific advice about your situation.

Local homeschool groups sometimes organize bulk buying programs. These can reduce costs on curricula and supplies.

What resources are available for free homeschooling in Arkansas?

Your local library offers many educational resources. This includes books, educational videos, and sometimes homeschool programs.

State libraries provide online databases and educational materials. Many offer free access to learning platforms and research tools.

Arkansas offers free online resources through various state educational websites. These include lesson plans and educational activities.

Homeschool co-ops and groups share resources among members. This helps reduce individual family costs while building community connections.