How to homeschool in Florida

Homeschooling in Florida is a legally recognized and flexible alternative to public education, empowering parents to tailor their child’s learning experience.

Florida gives homeschooling families two options: start a home education program or enroll in a private school that allows parent-led education. Both meet state requirements and let families tailor learning to their needs.

If you're considering homeschooling in Florida, here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Compulsory education: Florida law mandates that children aged 6 to 16 must receive compulsory education, ensuring that all students meet educational requirements within the state.
• Notification: Parents must submit a Notice of Intent to the district school superintendent to establish a home education program (only required for home education, not private school enrollment).
• Parent qualifications: No specific teaching credentials are required for parents to homeschool their children.
• Subjects: The law does not mandate a specific curriculum, but parents are expected to provide a sequentially progressive instruction program suited to the child's needs.

For a comprehensive guide to Florida’s homeschooling laws and requirements, visit the Florida Department of Education’s Home Education Program page.

Florida homeschoolers do not have formal graduation requirements imposed by the state. Parents have the freedom to determine what constitutes their child’s completion of high school. However, it’s recommended to align with typical high school standards if students plan to attend college.

• Homeschool parents can issue a diploma to their graduate.
• Maintaining a detailed high school transcript—including coursework, grades, and achievements—is crucial for post-secondary endeavors.

For additional insights, check Florida’s Department of Education guidelines Florida's Department of Education guidelines.

Florida homeschoolers are required to provide an annual assessment to demonstrate their child’s educational progress. Parents can choose one of the following methods to fulfill this requirement:

• Standardized testing (such as the Stanford Achievement Test or Iowa Test of Basic Skills) administered by a certified teacher.
• An evaluation by a Florida-certified teacher.
• A portfolio review conducted by a certified teacher.

Detailed information about annual evaluations can be accessed on the Florida Home Education Program page.

Florida homeschoolers are highly successful in getting admitted to colleges and universities. Many Florida institutions, including the University of Florida and Florida State University, openly accept homeschool applicants. Homeschooled students follow the same general process as traditionally schooled students but must ensure they present a clear academic record.

Be sure to reach out to admissions offices for guidance on their specific requirements for homeschool applicants. Here's what homeschoolers can do to prepare:

• Maintain a robust transcript detailing high school courses, credits, and grades. Homeschoolers often create their own transcripts, outlining coursework completed at home, co-ops, or online programs. Be sure to include course descriptions, grading scales, and any honors or advanced-level classes. Time4learning parents have access to a transcript template to fill out.
• Obtain letters of recommendation, especially from educators or extracurricular mentors. Homeschoolers can request letters from co-op teachers, online instructors, volunteer supervisors, or activity leaders who can vouch for their skills and character.
• Take college entrance exams like the SAT or ACT, as these are often required. Homeschoolers typically register independently for these exams and use practice resources to prepare. Test scores can help validate academic rigor for colleges.
• Build a portfolio to showcase your work, passion projects, internships, and volunteer experiences. The flexibility of a homeschool schedule gives students a unique opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities. Time4Learning parents can also print weekly reports to highlight their student’s accomplishments.

Florida offers Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) through programs like the Family Empowerment Scholarship. Homeschooling families who qualify can use ESA funds to cover educational expenses, such as curriculum, materials, and specialized services.

For details on how to apply for ESAs in Florida, visit the official Step Up For Students website.