Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in Minnesota

Here is exactly what Minnesota 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
Regular instruction
Portfolio
Not required
Testing / evaluation
Required

Minnesota homeschool requirements

  • Notification: File written notice with your local school district by October 1 (or within 30 days of beginning). Include student ages and curriculum overview.
  • Required subjects: Cover Reading, Writing, Literature, Math, Science, Social Studies, Arts, Health, PE.
  • Teacher requirement: Parent must hold a teaching license OR provide annual testing by a licensed teacher
  • Portfolio / records: No portfolio is required by the state, though keeping records is recommended.
  • Testing / evaluation: Annual standardized testing administered by a qualified evaluator OR parent holds a teaching license. Results kept by parent; not submitted to 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 Minnesota

  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, Writing, Literature, Math, Science, Social Studies, Arts, Health, PE.
  4. Plan for the required annual assessment or evaluation.
  5. Keep your records organized from year to year.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Minnesota?
File written notice with your local school district by October 1 (or within 30 days of beginning). Include student ages and curriculum overview.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
Parent must hold a teaching license OR provide annual testing by a licensed teacher
Is standardized testing required?
Annual standardized testing administered by a qualified evaluator OR parent holds a teaching license. Results kept by parent; not submitted to 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota department of education or county superintendent.