Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in Iowa

Here is exactly what Iowa 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
148 hrs/year
Portfolio
Not required
Testing / evaluation
Required

Iowa homeschool requirements

  • Notification: File a Competent Private Instruction (CPI) report with your local school district by September 1. Provides a curriculum overview.
  • Required subjects: Cover Reading, Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Health, Fine Arts, PE.
  • Teacher requirement: Parent must hold a valid Iowa teaching license OR use licensed supervising teacher (who visits at least quarterly)
  • Portfolio / records: No portfolio is required by the state, though keeping records is recommended.
  • Testing / evaluation: Annual assessment required if not using a licensed supervising teacher. Results filed with district.
  • Recordkeeping: No retention period is set by the state; keep records organized year to year.

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 Iowa

  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 Reading, Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Health, Fine Arts, PE.
  4. Plan for the required annual assessment or evaluation.
  5. Check whether your state offers scholarship or ESA funding for home education.
  6. Keep your records organized from year to year.

Scholarships & funding in Iowa

Iowa has an ESA (Education Savings Account) program. Teacher requirement can be met by hiring a licensed supervising teacher.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Iowa?
File a Competent Private Instruction (CPI) report with your local school district by September 1. Provides a curriculum overview.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
Parent must hold a valid Iowa teaching license OR use licensed supervising teacher (who visits at least quarterly)
Is standardized testing required?
Annual assessment required if not using a licensed supervising teacher. Results filed with district.
How long should I keep records?
No retention period is mandated, but keeping thorough records is strongly recommended.
Track all of this automatically

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

Start free →

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