Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in South Carolina

Here is exactly what South Carolina 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
180 hrs/year
Portfolio
Required
Testing / evaluation
Not required

South Carolina homeschool requirements

  • Notification: Must enroll under Option 1 (association membership), Option 2 (district approval), or Option 3 (SC Association of Independent Home Schools). File annually.
  • Required subjects: Cover Reading, Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies, Composition, Literature.
  • Teacher requirement: Parent must hold a high school diploma or GED
  • Portfolio / records: Keep attendance records and a portfolio of student work. Reviewing body may request review.
  • 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

At the start of the yearFile your required notification with the district or state.
AnnuallyRenew your notification.

Getting started in South Carolina

  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, Math, Science, Social Studies, Composition, Literature.
  4. Check whether your state offers scholarship or ESA funding for home education.
  5. Keep your records organized from year to year.

Scholarships & funding in South Carolina

South Carolina has the Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF) for eligible families.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in South Carolina?
Must enroll under Option 1 (association membership), Option 2 (district approval), or Option 3 (SC Association of Independent Home Schools). File annually.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
Parent must hold a high school diploma or GED
Is standardized testing required?
No — South Carolina does not mandate standardized testing.
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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina department of education or county superintendent.