Connecticut Laws and Requirements for Homeschool

Connecticut Homeschooling Laws and Requirements

In Connecticut, parents have the legal right to homeschool their children under the state’s compulsory education law. The law recognizes homeschooling as a valid alternative to public and private schooling, provided parents follow specific guidelines.

Key Requirements for Homeschooling in Connecticut

  1. Compulsory Attendance

    • Children between the ages of 5 and 18 must receive instruction in school unless they are being homeschooled.

  2. Filing a Notice of Intent (NOI)

    • Parents are required to file a Notice of Intent with the local school district annually before starting homeschooling.
    • The NOI includes:
      • Child’s name and age.
      • Subjects to be taught.
      • The instructional days and hours (at least 180 days per year).
    • This form is not legally mandated but is part of Connecticut State Department of Education guidelines.

  3. Required Subjects

    • Parents must provide instruction in the following subjects:
      • Reading
      • Writing
      • English
      • Math
      • Science
      • Social Studies (including citizenship and history of Connecticut and the U.S.)
      • Arts and Vocational Education
      • Health

  4. Instruction Requirements

    • There are no mandatory days or hours of instruction defined by law; however, adherence to 180 days per year is suggested as per state guidelines.
    • Parents should teach subjects that ensure an “equivalent instruction” comparable to what is provided in public schools.

  5. Portfolio Reviews

    • At the end of each school year, local school districts may request a portfolio review with parents to discuss the student’s progress. Participation is voluntary and not legally enforceable.

Testing and Assessment

  • There is no requirement for standardized testing for homeschooled students in Connecticut.
  • Parents can choose to administer tests at their discretion to track their child’s progress.

Graduation and Diplomas

  • Connecticut does not issue diplomas to homeschool students.
  • Parents can issue a diploma upon the completion of their homeschool program.
  • Homeschooled students may also take the GED to earn an equivalent state-issued credential.

Reentering Public School

  • Students may return to public school at any time.
  • The school district may review the student’s work or administer placement tests to determine appropriate grade level and credit transfer.

Additional Resources and Support

  1. Connecticut State Department of Education: Official guidelines for homeschooling.
  2. Connecticut Homeschool Network (CHN): Advocacy, resources, and support for homeschooling families.
  3. Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA): Legal assistance and policy clarification for homeschoolers.
  4. Connecticut Homeschool Groups: Local communities that provide networking opportunities and resources.

Key Points

  • File a Notice of Intent annually with your local district to begin homeschooling.
  • Teach required subjects and aim for instructional days comparable to public schools.
  • Portfolio reviews, while recommended, are voluntary.
  • Homeschoolers have flexibility in curriculum choice and are not bound to standardized testing.


Connecticut Department of Education