Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in New Jersey

Here is exactly what New Jersey 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
Not required
Instructional days
Regular instruction
Portfolio
Not required
Testing / evaluation
Not required

New Jersey homeschool requirements

  • Notification: New Jersey does not require any notice of intent - you can begin homeschooling without filing with the state.
  • Required subjects: No specific subject list is mandated; families typically cover language arts, math, science, and social studies.
  • Teacher requirement: None ("equivalent instruction")
  • Portfolio / records: No portfolio is required by the state, though keeping records is recommended.
  • Testing / evaluation: No standardized testing is required by the state.
  • Recordkeeping: No retention period is set by the state; keep records organized year to year.

Key dates & deadlines

No state filingNew Jersey requires no notice of intent to begin homeschooling.

Getting started in New Jersey

  1. No notification is required - you can begin homeschooling right away.
  2. Set up simple records: a log of instruction and samples of your child’s work.
  3. Choose curriculum for the subjects you’ll teach.
  4. Keep your records organized from year to year.

Scholarships & funding in New Jersey

New Jersey does not currently run a state scholarship or education savings account program that homeschool families can use. Families here typically fund curriculum and materials themselves, which makes keeping clean purchase records useful at tax time and if the state's rules change.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in New Jersey?
No - New Jersey does not require a notice of intent.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
None ("equivalent instruction")
Is standardized testing required?
No - New Jersey does not mandate standardized testing.
How long should I keep records?
No retention period is mandated, but keeping thorough records is strongly recommended.
Is there scholarship or ESA funding for homeschoolers in New Jersey?
Not at present. New Jersey has no state scholarship or education savings account program open to homeschool families, though families still commonly track purchases for their own budgeting.
What subjects must I teach in New Jersey?
New Jersey does not set a required subject list. Most families cover language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and add subjects to suit the child.
How many days or hours of instruction does New Jersey require?
New Jersey does not set a specific hours or days requirement for homeschoolers. Keeping a simple record of instruction is still worthwhile if your circumstances change.
Track all of this automatically

Beyond My Books logs your New Jersey 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 New Jersey department of education or county superintendent.