South Carolina Laws and Requirements for Homeschool

In South Carolina, parents or guardians have three legal options for homeschooling their children, each with specific requirements:

Option 1: Homeschooling Through the School District

  • Approval: Obtain approval from your local school district's board of trustees.
  • Parent Qualifications: Possess at least a high school diploma or GED.
  • Instructional Days: Provide at least 180 days of instruction per year.
  • Curriculum:   Include reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, and, for grades 7–12, composition and literature.
  • Recordkeeping: Maintain a plan book or diary of subjects taught, a portfolio of the student's work, and academic progress assessments.
  • Testing: Ensure the student participates in the annual statewide testing program.

This option is considered the most restrictive due to its detailed requirements and oversight.

Option 2: Homeschooling Through the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS)

  • Membership: Enroll in SCAIHS, a faith-based organization that oversees and maintains records for homeschooling families.
  • Parent Qualifications: Possess at least a high school diploma or GED.
  • Instructional Days: Provide at least 180 days of instruction per year.
  • Curriculum: Include reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, and, for grades 7–12, composition and literature.
  • Recordkeeping: Maintain attendance records and progress reports; SCAIHS may have additional requirements.
  • Testing: Annual testing is required for students in grades 3–11.

Membership fees range from $350 to $450 per child, plus additional fees. SCAIHS provides services such as permanent records, transcripts, diplomas upon graduation, and support for students with special needs.

Option 3: Homeschooling Through a South Carolina Accountability Association

  • Membership: Join an accountability association with at least 50 member families.
  • Parent Qualifications: Possess at least a high school diploma or GED.
  • Instructional Days: Provide at least 180 days of instruction per year.
  • Curriculum: Include reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, and, for grades 7–12, composition and literature.
  • Recordkeeping: Maintain a plan book or diary of subjects taught, a portfolio of the student's work, and a semiannual progress report including attendance records and assessments of the student's progress in each required subject.

This option offers more flexibility and less oversight compared to the other two.

Additional Resources