New York Homeschool Requirements
New York has detailed requirements including notification, IHIP submission, quarterly reports, and annual assessments.
New York Quick Facts
- • Letter of intent required 14 days before homeschooling begins
- • Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP) submission required
- • Quarterly progress reports (4 per year)
- • Annual assessment in grades 1-8
- • Specific subject and hour requirements by grade
Annual Requirements:
Letter of Intent
Submit to your local school district 14 days before starting homeschool or by July 1 for fall start
IHIP Submission
Submit Individualized Home Instruction Plan within 4 weeks of letter of intent approval
Quarterly Reports
Submit 4 reports per year showing hours of instruction and brief description of material covered
Annual Assessment (Grades 1-8)
Submit results from standardized test, written narrative, or other approved assessment method
Important:
New York requires specific instruction hours and subjects by grade level. Districts may request additional documentation if progress is not satisfactory.
Grades K-6 (900 hours/year minimum)
Grades 7-8 (990 hours/year minimum)
Same as K-6, plus:
Grades 9-12 (990 hours/year minimum)
Core subjects plus electives for diploma units:
- • 4 units English
- • 4 units Social Studies (including American History, Global History, Government, Economics)
- • 3 units Math
- • 3 units Science
- • 2 units Foreign Language or Career & Technical Education
- • 1 unit Arts
- • 1 unit Physical Education
- • 0.5 unit Health
List of Subjects
All required subjects for your child's grade level
Curriculum Materials
Textbooks, workbooks, online programs, library resources
Reading List (Optional)
Books planned for the year (not required but helpful)
Standardized Test
Administer an approved standardized test (CAT, Iowa, Stanford, etc.). Student must score above the 33rd percentile in reading and math.
Written Narrative
Parent writes a detailed evaluation describing what the child studied and progress made in each subject. Must be at least 1-2 pages and specific.
Other Method
With district approval, use alternative assessment (portfolio review by certified teacher, etc.).
💡 Most Popular: Written narrative (free and flexible) or standardized testing at home
Submit Letter of Intent
Send to your school district superintendent at least 14 days before homeschooling (or by July 1 for fall). Include child's name, age, grade, address, and statement that you will homeschool per NY regulations.
Prepare Your IHIP
Once your letter is approved (or within 4 weeks), submit your IHIP listing subjects and curriculum. Keep a copy for your records.
Track Hours & Keep Records
Maintain attendance records showing you've met minimum hours. Use a calendar or planner to track instruction time and topics covered for quarterly reports.
Submit Quarterly Reports
Every ~10-11 weeks, submit a brief report (1 page) showing hours completed and topics covered in each subject.
High School & Regents Exams
Homeschoolers can take Regents exams at local schools for an advanced Regents diploma. For college admission:
- • Parent-issued diploma and transcript
- • SAT/ACT scores
- • Portfolio or course descriptions
- • Consider taking some Regents exams for credibility
Special Education
Children with IEPs can be homeschooled but lose access to public school services once withdrawn. Many families access private therapies and homeschool special needs support groups.
If Assessment Isn't Satisfactory
If test scores are below 33rd percentile or narrative is insufficient, district may place student on probation and require remediation plan. Persistent issues could result in homeschool termination.
Connect with other New York homeschool families for support, co-ops, and activities.
Find New York GroupsBrowse New York Field TripsHow do I calculate 900 hours?
900 hours = 5 hours/day × 180 days, but any combination works (6 hours × 150 days, etc.). Track actual instruction time, not just "school day."
Can I use online curriculum?
Yes! Online programs count as curriculum. List them in your IHIP and track time spent.
What if my district rejects my IHIP?
Districts can only reject IHIPs if they don't meet subject requirements or lack detail. If rejected, you can revise and resubmit. Contact LEAH or HSLDA for support if needed.
Do I need teaching credentials?
No, New York does not require parents to have teaching credentials or college degrees to homeschool.
Ready to Start Homeschooling in New York?
Join New York homeschool families on Homeschool Connect for support through the paperwork