Homeschooling in Virginia: Requirements & Getting Started Guide

Understand Virginia homeschool laws, enrollment pathways, record-keeping expectations, and how to begin homeschooling with clarity and confidence.

Quick Answer Box

Is homeschooling legal in Virginia?
Yes. Homeschooling is legal in Virginia under several recognized legal options.

Do you have to notify the state or district?
Yes. Families must submit a Notice of Intent annually to their local school division superintendent.

Is testing required?
Yes. Families must submit annual evidence of academic progress.

Are attendance records required?
Virginia does not require submission of attendance logs, but families must provide instruction for a sufficient school year and maintain documentation.

HOMESCHOOL OPTIONS IN VIRGINIA

Home Instruction Statute (Most Common Option)
Parents file an annual Notice of Intent and meet qualification requirements. Families must provide annual proof of progress through testing or evaluation.

Religious Exemption
Families may request a religious exemption from compulsory attendance laws through the local school board.

Certified Tutor Option
A parent who holds a valid Virginia teaching license may homeschool under the certified tutor provision.

Private School Enrollment
Families may enroll in a private school or correspondence program that meets state requirements.

What You Must Do

• Submit a Notice of Intent annually to your local superintendent

• Provide proof that the parent meets one of the qualification requirements (such as a high school diploma)

• Include a list of subjects to be studied for the year

• Provide instruction in required subjects:

  • English

  • Mathematics

  • Science

  • History and social science

  • Health

  • Physical education

• Submit annual evidence of academic progress (standardized test results or evaluation)
  
  
  

What Records Virginia Homeschool Families Keep?

Virginia homeschool families are responsible for maintaining organized documentation.

Common records include:

• Copy of annual Notice of Intent

• Curriculum list

• Work samples and portfolio

• Standardized test results or evaluation report

• Progress summaries

• High school transcripts (if applicable)
  
  

Need help organizing your homeschool records?

Getting Started in Virginia

1. Review Virginia homeschool qualification requirements.

2. Prepare and submit your Notice of Intent to your local superintendent.

3. Choose curriculum covering required subjects.

4. Create a system to document learning and progress.

5. Plan for annual testing or evaluation.

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.