Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in Ohio

Here is exactly what Ohio 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
900 hrs/year
Portfolio
Not required
Testing / evaluation
Required

Ohio homeschool requirements

  • Notification: Submit a yearly notification to your local school district superintendent by August 1 (or within 14 days of beginning). Includes proposed curriculum.
  • Required subjects: Cover Language Arts, Geography, US/OH History, Government, Math, Science, Health, PE, Art, Music, First Aid.
  • Teacher requirement: Parent must hold a high school diploma, have a child assessed by a certified teacher annually, or hire a certified teacher
  • Portfolio / records: No portfolio is required by the state, though keeping records is recommended.
  • Testing / evaluation: Annual assessment required by a certified teacher, licensed psychologist, or by standardized testing. Results submitted to school 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 Ohio

  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, Geography, US/OH History, Government, Math, Science, Health, PE, Art, Music, First Aid.
  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 Ohio?
Submit a yearly notification to your local school district superintendent by August 1 (or within 14 days of beginning). Includes proposed curriculum.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
Parent must hold a high school diploma, have a child assessed by a certified teacher annually, or hire a certified teacher
Is standardized testing required?
Annual assessment required by a certified teacher, licensed psychologist, or by standardized testing. Results submitted to school 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 Ohio 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 Ohio department of education or county superintendent.