Homeschool Guide
How to Homeschool in Wisconsin
Here is exactly what Wisconsin 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
875 hrs/year
Portfolio
Not required
Testing / evaluation
Not required
Wisconsin homeschool requirements
- Notification: File an annual report with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction by October 15. Simple one-page form.
- Required subjects: Cover Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, Health, PE, Art, Music.
- Teacher requirement: No teacher certification is required to teach your own children.
- 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
| At the start of the year | File your required notification with the district or state. |
| Annually | Renew your notification. |
Getting started in Wisconsin
- File your required notification with your district or the state (see requirements above).
- Set up simple records: a log of instruction and samples of your child’s work.
- Choose curriculum covering Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, Health, PE, Art, Music.
- Keep your records organized from year to year.
Scholarships & funding in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP) and Wisconsin Parental Choice Program (WPCP) for eligible families.
Official resources
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Wisconsin?
File an annual report with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction by October 15. Simple one-page form.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
No — there is no teacher-certification requirement.
Is standardized testing required?
No — Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin department of education or county superintendent.