Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in Arkansas

Here is exactly what Arkansas requires to homeschool legally — how to notify (if needed), what records to keep, testing rules, and how to get started.

Last updated June 2026

Notice required
Required
Instructional days
1000 hrs/year
Portfolio
Not required
Testing / evaluation
Required

Arkansas homeschool requirements

  • Notification: Submit a Notice of Intent to Homeschool to the local school district by August 15 (or within 30 days of beginning).
  • Required subjects: Cover Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, Health, PE, Fine Arts, Career Education.
  • Teacher requirement: No teacher certification is required to teach your own children.
  • Portfolio / records: No portfolio is required by the state, though keeping records is recommended.
  • Testing / evaluation: Annual standardized testing required in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. Results must be kept on file.
  • Recordkeeping: Keep your homeschool records for at least 3 years.

Key dates & deadlines

At the start of the yearFile your required notification with the district or state.
AnnuallyRenew your notification and complete the required assessment.

Getting started in Arkansas

  1. File your required notification with your district or the state (see requirements above).
  2. Set up simple records: a log of instruction and samples of your child’s work.
  3. Choose curriculum covering Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, Health, PE, Fine Arts, Career Education.
  4. Plan for the required annual assessment or evaluation.
  5. Keep your records on file for at least 3 years.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Arkansas?
Submit a Notice of Intent to Homeschool to the local school district by August 15 (or within 30 days of beginning).
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
No — there is no teacher-certification requirement.
Is standardized testing required?
Annual standardized testing required in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. Results must be kept on file.
How long should I keep records?
Keep your homeschool records for at least 3 years.
Track all of this automatically

Beyond My Books logs your Arkansas instructional days, required subjects, portfolio, and deadlines — and warns you before anything is due.

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This guide is general information, not legal advice. Homeschool laws change — verify current requirements with your Arkansas department of education or county superintendent.