Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in North Dakota

Here is exactly what North Dakota 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

North Dakota homeschool requirements

  • Notification: Submit a statement to your local school board before August 1 annually, including a course of study and required information.
  • Required subjects: Cover English, Math, History, Geography, Science, Health, PE, Reading.
  • Teacher requirement: Parent must hold a teaching certificate OR supervise standardized testing
  • Portfolio / records: No portfolio is required by the state, though keeping records is recommended.
  • Testing / evaluation: Annual standardized testing required in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10. Results submitted to local school board.
  • 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 North Dakota

  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 English, Math, History, Geography, Science, Health, PE, Reading.
  4. Plan for the required annual assessment or evaluation.
  5. Keep your records organized from year to year.

Scholarships & funding in North Dakota

North Dakota is one of the more regulated states.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in North Dakota?
Submit a statement to your local school board before August 1 annually, including a course of study and required information.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
Parent must hold a teaching certificate OR supervise standardized testing
Is standardized testing required?
Annual standardized testing required in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10. Results submitted to local school board.
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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota department of education or county superintendent.