![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/SEO-133_RankingHomeschoolStates-Illinois.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nHomeschooling in Illinois<\/strong> Overview<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nNotice of Intent Required: No, but withdrawal form may be needed. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n1 Option for Homeschooling: Home Education<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nSubject or Curriculum Requirements: Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nAttendance Age Requirements: 6-17<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nRecord-Keeping Requirements: No<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nAssessments or Evaluations Required: No<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nProof of Immunization Required: No<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTable of Contents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\nIllinois Homeschooling Laws and Regulations
<\/strong>How to Start Homeschooling<\/a>
Withdrawal Letter<\/a>
Mandatory School Age<\/a>
Subject Requirements<\/a>
Part Time Homeschooling<\/a>
Record-Keeping Requirements<\/a>
Evaluations and Assessments<\/a>
Required Immunizations<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nResources for Homeschooling Families in Illinois<\/strong>
Homeschool Groups and Co-ops<\/a>
Organizations and Associations<\/a>
Sports Opportunities<\/a>
Homeschool Field Trips<\/a>
Special Education Homeschoolers
<\/a>How Homeschool+ Curriculum Can Help<\/a>
Homeschool FAQ <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Group-9.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nHow to Start Homeschooling in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Illinois is flexible and supportive in its homeschool policies, so it\u2019s simple to comply with local requirements and start homeschooling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your child is attending public school, you need to confirm withdrawal procedures with their school. After that, you can jump right into your homeschool adventure. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nSubmitting a Withdrawal Letter to Homeschool in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
While you\u2019re not required to file a notice of intent to homeschool in Illinois, you are required to formally withdraw your student if they\u2019re already enrolled in public school. However, it’s not mandatory to explain that their education will continue at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s recommended that you notify your child\u2019s current school in writing that<\/p>\n\n\n\n
you are withdrawing them from public school. Your child\u2019s school may already have a withdrawal form for you to sign. A withdrawal letter ensures your child\u2019s school knows they will no longer attend classes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No other forms, approvals, registrations, or licenses are needed to create your homeschool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
TIP:<\/strong> Once you have officially withdrawn your child from their current school, you may start homeschooling.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Notice-of-Intent.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/School-Age.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nMandatory School Age in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If your child is 6 years old or older by September 1st, you fall under the compulsory attendance law in Illinois. This means that your child must receive an education through a public, private, or homeschool program from age 6 through 17. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
TIP:<\/strong> When your high schooler reaches age 17 or finishes their high school program, they are exempt from the attendance law.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nIllinois Homeschool Subject Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
While Illinois does not mandate that homeschoolers follow a specific curriculum, they are required to teach certain subjects. Plan to educate in these areas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Language arts<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mathematics<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Biological and physical science<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Social science (social studies)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fine arts<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Physical development and health<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
No specific classes or sub-topics need to be taught within these academic areas. You can curate a homeschool program that best suits your child. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Curriculum-Requirements.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Attendance-Requirements.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nPart-Time Homeschooling in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Illinois homeschooling regulations offer an option not commonly found in other states\u2013part-time homeschooling.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Illinois, homeschooling students have the opportunity to take part in academic or extracurricular activities provided by the local school system, depending on space availability, thanks to a special state code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re interested in enrolling your homeschooler for the upcoming school year, you must request permission from the school by May 1st of the school year prior to enrollment. For example, you would submit a request by May 1, 2024, for attendance at the public school in the fall of 2024. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
TIP:<\/strong> You can only submit requests for your student to participate in academic or extracurricular activities in the same district as your homeschool.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nIllinois Homeschool Record-Keeping Requirements <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
While there aren’t any explicit mandates for maintaining records, keeping records of your homeschooling efforts is highly recommended. Thorough records are helpful in case of enrollment in a public school or when it\u2019s time for your child to apply for college, trade school, or the military. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Record-Keeping.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Assessment.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nIllinois Homeschool Assessments and Evaluations <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Homeschooled children in Illinois do not have to take any tests or evaluations. However, if you\u2019d like your child to participate in periodic evaluations, the results don\u2019t have to be submitted to the school district or Illinois State Board of Education.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nRequired Immunizations for Homeschoolers in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Illinois immunization requirements include private and public school children. Homeschoolers in Illinois are considered private school students and are expected to get immunizations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The state accepts exemptions and does not require home educators to submit immunization records to the school district or state. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
TIP:<\/strong> Whether you immunize your child or not, keep their immunization documents or exemptions with your homeschool records. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Immunization.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Homeschool-Resources.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nResources for Homeschool Families in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Most homeschooling families take advantage of various resources to enhance their education, promote socialization, and facilitate home-based learning. These valuable connections typically occur in homeschool groups, cooperatives, or larger associations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nHomeschool Groups and Co-ops in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Becoming part of a homeschool group or co-op (short for cooperative) is a fantastic way for families to interact with other homeschoolers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
TIP:<\/strong> Groups and co-ops are diverse in size, organization, and objectives but commonly present avenues for socialization, academic enhancement, and cooperation among homeschooling households.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNumerous homeschool groups and co-ops arrange field trips, courses, seminars, and other events for homeschoolers. Children and home educators will also find friendships, assistance, and guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We recommend checking online when you begin your search for a homeschool group or co-op. Here are some popular groups and co-ops to get you started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Illinois Homeschooling Families<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nNW IL Homeschoolers<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nIllinois Loves Homeschooling<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nPeaceful Parenting \/ Unschooling \/ Homeschooling Families of Illinois<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nChristian Homeschool Activities (Central Illinois)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nSouthern Illinois Homeschoolers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Homeschool-Organization.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Group-6.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nHomeschool Organizations and Associations <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Homeschool families can benefit greatly from the resources and support homeschool organizations and associations provide. Homeschool associations are typically more formal than traditional groups or co-ops and may require membership fees. These entities often offer access to events, information, resources, legal assistance, and advocacy efforts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Homeschoolers in Illinois should check out Illinois Homeschool Association (ILHSA)<\/a>, the statewide, nonsectarian (not religious based) homeschool network. <\/p>\n\n\n\nAccording to their website, \u201cThe purpose of this network is to support families in exercising their right to homeschool regardless of age, color, creed, ethnic background, family composition, financial condition, learning disabilities, race, religion or lack thereof, sexual preference, or special educational needs.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nSports Opportunities for Homeschoolers in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Homeschoolers in Illinois do not have access to public school sports because of bylaws created by interscholastic sports associations. Instead, local homeschoolers can find excellent athletic and sports opportunities in the community. Here are a few options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1 Option for Homeschooling: Home Education<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Subject or Curriculum Requirements: Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Attendance Age Requirements: 6-17<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Record-Keeping Requirements: No<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Assessments or Evaluations Required: No<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Proof of Immunization Required: No<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Illinois Homeschooling Laws and Regulations Resources for Homeschooling Families in Illinois<\/strong> Illinois is flexible and supportive in its homeschool policies, so it\u2019s simple to comply with local requirements and start homeschooling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If your child is attending public school, you need to confirm withdrawal procedures with their school. After that, you can jump right into your homeschool adventure. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n While you\u2019re not required to file a notice of intent to homeschool in Illinois, you are required to formally withdraw your student if they\u2019re already enrolled in public school. However, it’s not mandatory to explain that their education will continue at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s recommended that you notify your child\u2019s current school in writing that<\/p>\n\n\n\n you are withdrawing them from public school. Your child\u2019s school may already have a withdrawal form for you to sign. A withdrawal letter ensures your child\u2019s school knows they will no longer attend classes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No other forms, approvals, registrations, or licenses are needed to create your homeschool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n TIP:<\/strong> Once you have officially withdrawn your child from their current school, you may start homeschooling.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n If your child is 6 years old or older by September 1st, you fall under the compulsory attendance law in Illinois. This means that your child must receive an education through a public, private, or homeschool program from age 6 through 17. <\/p>\n\n\n\n TIP:<\/strong> When your high schooler reaches age 17 or finishes their high school program, they are exempt from the attendance law.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n While Illinois does not mandate that homeschoolers follow a specific curriculum, they are required to teach certain subjects. Plan to educate in these areas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n No specific classes or sub-topics need to be taught within these academic areas. You can curate a homeschool program that best suits your child. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Illinois homeschooling regulations offer an option not commonly found in other states\u2013part-time homeschooling.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Illinois, homeschooling students have the opportunity to take part in academic or extracurricular activities provided by the local school system, depending on space availability, thanks to a special state code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re interested in enrolling your homeschooler for the upcoming school year, you must request permission from the school by May 1st of the school year prior to enrollment. For example, you would submit a request by May 1, 2024, for attendance at the public school in the fall of 2024. <\/p>\n\n\n\n TIP:<\/strong> You can only submit requests for your student to participate in academic or extracurricular activities in the same district as your homeschool.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n While there aren’t any explicit mandates for maintaining records, keeping records of your homeschooling efforts is highly recommended. Thorough records are helpful in case of enrollment in a public school or when it\u2019s time for your child to apply for college, trade school, or the military. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Homeschooled children in Illinois do not have to take any tests or evaluations. However, if you\u2019d like your child to participate in periodic evaluations, the results don\u2019t have to be submitted to the school district or Illinois State Board of Education.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Illinois immunization requirements include private and public school children. Homeschoolers in Illinois are considered private school students and are expected to get immunizations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The state accepts exemptions and does not require home educators to submit immunization records to the school district or state. <\/p>\n\n\n\n TIP:<\/strong> Whether you immunize your child or not, keep their immunization documents or exemptions with your homeschool records. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Most homeschooling families take advantage of various resources to enhance their education, promote socialization, and facilitate home-based learning. These valuable connections typically occur in homeschool groups, cooperatives, or larger associations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Becoming part of a homeschool group or co-op (short for cooperative) is a fantastic way for families to interact with other homeschoolers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n TIP:<\/strong> Groups and co-ops are diverse in size, organization, and objectives but commonly present avenues for socialization, academic enhancement, and cooperation among homeschooling households.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Numerous homeschool groups and co-ops arrange field trips, courses, seminars, and other events for homeschoolers. Children and home educators will also find friendships, assistance, and guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We recommend checking online when you begin your search for a homeschool group or co-op. Here are some popular groups and co-ops to get you started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Illinois Homeschooling Families<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n NW IL Homeschoolers<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Illinois Loves Homeschooling<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Peaceful Parenting \/ Unschooling \/ Homeschooling Families of Illinois<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Christian Homeschool Activities (Central Illinois)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Southern Illinois Homeschoolers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Homeschool families can benefit greatly from the resources and support homeschool organizations and associations provide. Homeschool associations are typically more formal than traditional groups or co-ops and may require membership fees. These entities often offer access to events, information, resources, legal assistance, and advocacy efforts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Homeschoolers in Illinois should check out Illinois Homeschool Association (ILHSA)<\/a>, the statewide, nonsectarian (not religious based) homeschool network. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to their website, \u201cThe purpose of this network is to support families in exercising their right to homeschool regardless of age, color, creed, ethnic background, family composition, financial condition, learning disabilities, race, religion or lack thereof, sexual preference, or special educational needs.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Homeschoolers in Illinois do not have access to public school sports because of bylaws created by interscholastic sports associations. Instead, local homeschoolers can find excellent athletic and sports opportunities in the community. Here are a few options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTable of Contents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>How to Start Homeschooling<\/a>
Withdrawal Letter<\/a>
Mandatory School Age<\/a>
Subject Requirements<\/a>
Part Time Homeschooling<\/a>
Record-Keeping Requirements<\/a>
Evaluations and Assessments<\/a>
Required Immunizations<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Homeschool Groups and Co-ops<\/a>
Organizations and Associations<\/a>
Sports Opportunities<\/a>
Homeschool Field Trips<\/a>
Special Education Homeschoolers
<\/a>How Homeschool+ Curriculum Can Help<\/a>
Homeschool FAQ <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nHow to Start Homeschooling in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSubmitting a Withdrawal Letter to Homeschool in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMandatory School Age in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIllinois Homeschool Subject Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPart-Time Homeschooling in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIllinois Homeschool Record-Keeping Requirements <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIllinois Homeschool Assessments and Evaluations <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRequired Immunizations for Homeschoolers in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nResources for Homeschool Families in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHomeschool Groups and Co-ops in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHomeschool Organizations and Associations <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSports Opportunities for Homeschoolers in Illinois<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Homeschool-Sports.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Field-Trips.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/heart.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/ABCMouse-Mice-Group-300x204.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-27-at-9.28.09\u202fAM-1.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n