Homeschooling in Minnesota: Requirements & Getting Started Guide

Understand Minnesota homeschool laws, notification requirements, testing expectations, and record-keeping guidelines so you can begin homeschooling with clarity and confidence.

Quick Answer Box

Is homeschooling legal in Minnesota?
Yes. Homeschooling is legal in Minnesota.

Do you have to notify the state or district?
Yes. Families must submit an annual Letter of Intent to their local school district superintendent.

Is testing required?
Yes. Minnesota requires annual standardized testing for homeschool students.

Are attendance records required?
Minnesota requires instruction for a specific number of days and families must maintain records.

HOMESCHOOL OPTIONS IN MINNESOTA

Home Instruction (Most Common Option)
Parents homeschool independently after submitting required annual documentation to the local school district.

Accredited Nonpublic School Enrollment
Families may enroll in an accredited nonpublic school that oversees compliance.

Public School Online or Alternative Programs
Families may enroll in district-supported virtual or alternative learning programs if they prefer district oversight.

What You Must Do

• Submit an annual Letter of Intent to your local superintendent

• Provide instruction for the same number of days required of public schools

• Teach required subject areas, including:

  • Reading

  • Writing

  • Literature

  • Fine arts

  • Mathematics

  • Science

  • History

  • Geography

  • Government

  • Citizenship

  • Health

  • Physical education

• Complete annual standardized testing

• Maintain required documentation
  
  

What Records Minnesota Homeschool Families Keep?

Minnesota homeschool families must maintain organized documentation.

Required and recommended records include:

• Copy of annual Letter of Intent

• Attendance record

• Immunization records

• Standardized test results

• Curriculum outline

• Work samples and portfolio

• High school transcripts (if applicable)
  
  

Need help organizing your homeschool records?




Getting Started in Minnesota

1. Review Minnesota homeschool requirements.

2. Submit your annual Letter of Intent to your local school district.

3. Choose curriculum covering required subject areas.

4. Create a system to track attendance and documentation.

5. Schedule annual standardized testing.
   
   

Homeschooling does not have to feel overwhelming — clarity and structure make all the difference.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Homeschool Glow provides general educational guidance and organizational tools. Families are responsible for confirming requirements with their state and local authorities.