How to Homeschool in Minnesota: Complete Guide (2026)

Want to homeschool like Minnesota families love? The North Star State has moderate rules. Basically, you file once a year. Then, you test once a year. That’s the main burden. In fact, thousands of families do it. You can too.

In short, this guide covers the laws. You’ll learn each step to get started.

Looking at nearby states? Check our guides for Wisconsin, Iowa, and North Dakota.

Laws at a Glance

Overall, the North Star State has moderate regulation. The rules are clear. Consequently, many families adjust quickly. Once you learn the basics, it feels routine. In fact, Minnesota ranks among the moderately regulated states for homeschooling.

Why Homeschool in Minnesota?

In reality, Minnesota offers real benefits for homeschool families. Here’s why thousands choose this path:

• Clear requirements – Know exactly what the state expects
• Curriculum freedom – Choose any materials you want
• PSEO access – Free college courses for high schoolers
• Testing flexibility – Use accredited programs to skip tests
• Strong community – Active co-ops across the state
• Four seasons – Natural science opportunities year-round
• Parent autonomy – No credentials required to teach

Requirement	Details
Legal Status	Legal
Notification	Required (by October 1)
Subjects	Yes (10 subjects)
Testing	Annual (with exceptions)
Instructor	Parents qualify
Records	Immunization only
Ages	7-17

The law is in Statutes 120A.22 and 120A.24. Admittedly, it sounds formal. However, the process is simpler than it reads.

Key Rules Explained

Let’s break down each rule. Essentially, they’re simpler than they look. Below, we’ll cover the main four.

Yearly Notification

First, notify your superintendent by October 1. Just once a year. Basically, this is your annual check-in. Importantly, no approval is needed. Just notify.

Starting mid-year? Simply file within 15 days of beginning. Moving to a new district? Same rule applies. File within 15 days.

Your form must include:

• Names and ages of your kids
• Your name as instructor
• Proof you’re qualified

Therefore, keep a copy of everything. Mail certified or use email. Also, save your receipt. This protects you if questions arise. Remember, documentation matters.

The Instructor Rule

The state wants a “qualified” instructor, which admittedly sounds scary, but it’s actually not intimidating at all. Parents qualify automatically without needing any test, degree, or certification.

Here’s who counts as qualified:

• Any parent of the child
• Someone the parent supervises
• A licensed teacher

Bottom line: you qualify. No training needed. Essentially, the rule only limits non-parents. If you’re the parent, you’re good.

Ten Required Subjects

You must teach these areas:

• Reading
• Writing
• Literature
• Fine arts
• Math
• Science
• History
• Geography
• Government
• Health
• Physical education

Yes, that’s eleven items. However, reading and writing count together. So do some others. In comparison, Texas or Indiana have fewer rules. However, ten subjects is still doable. Many families blend subjects naturally.

Ultimately, how you teach is your choice. Textbooks work. Unit studies work. Similarly, unschooling works. The state just wants subjects covered.

Yearly Testing

Notably, this is the big one. Annual testing is required. However, exceptions exist. Read carefully.

You test if:

• You homeschool independently

You skip testing if:

• You use an accredited program

Tests must be norm-referenced, such as the Iowa Test or CAT, and no minimum scores are required whatsoever. Your results stay with you, and you only share them if the superintendent asks.

Step by Step Start

Now, here’s exactly how to begin. Follow these six steps.

Step 1: File Notification

Initially, send your notice by October 1. Include names, ages, and your instructor info. Keep a copy. Get delivery proof. Certified mail or email works.

Starting later in the year? File within 15 days of beginning. No need to wait for fall.

Step 2: Leave School

Afterwards, if enrolled, notify the school. Give written notice of withdrawal. Get records you need. Transcripts are useful later. File your homeschool notice within 15 days of leaving.

Step 3: Pick Curriculum

Subsequently, choose materials for all subjects. Textbooks work. Online courses work. Your own method works. The state cares about coverage. Not how you teach.

Actually, take time here. Research options. Visit curriculum fairs. Read reviews. Many families change curricula in year one. That’s normal. Adjust as you learn what fits. Additionally, MACHE hosts a large annual conference with curriculum vendors to help you explore options.

Step 4: Plan Testing

How will you meet the testing rule?

• Option A: Test yearly with a standard test
• Option B: Use an accredited program

Notably, Option B skips testing entirely. Many online schools qualify. Research which programs are accredited. Great for test-averse families. Worth considering.

Step 5: Start Teaching

Now, begin your program. Cover the subjects. Find your rhythm. Most families settle in fast. Admittedly, the first weeks feel bumpy. Then it smooths out.

Honestly, don’t overthink it. Start with what you know. Build from there. You’ll find your groove. Most families feel confident by the end of their first semester.

Step 6: Renew Yearly

Finally, file new notice each October. Same process. Same deadline. It gets easy with practice. Set a calendar reminder.

Testing Details

So, not using an accredited program? You’ll test. Here’s what you need to know.

Valid Tests

• Iowa Test of Basic Skills
• Stanford Achievement Test
• California Achievement Test
• TerraNova
• Woodcock-Johnson

Generally, any nationally norm-referenced test works. These are the common ones. Check which is easiest to arrange.

Where to Test

• Your school district (some offer it)
• Private testing services
• Home testing (some tests allow it)
• Co-op group testing days

Fortunately, many groups coordinate testing. Join local co-ops to find options. As a result, logistics become simpler. Testing together is less stressful too.

About Scores

Importantly, no minimum score exists whatsoever, which means low scores carry no penalty at all. The test simply shows that education happens and tracks progress over time.

Therefore, don’t stress about scores. Use them for your own planning. See where your child grows. Then, adjust teaching as needed.

The Accredited Path

Naturally, want no testing hassle? Use an accredited program. Many families prefer this route.

What Counts?

Specifically, programs accredited by recognized agencies. Many online schools qualify. Likewise, correspondence programs too. Virtual public schools may count. Check the specific accreditation.

How It Works

First, enroll in the program. Then, follow their curriculum. Next, meet their rules. They handle educational oversight. As a result, you skip state testing. Simple trade.

Admittedly, you lose some flexibility. However, you gain convenience. Weigh it carefully. Some love the structure. Others feel boxed in. Therefore, try one year to see.

High School Years

Certainly, high school homeschooling works well. Parents issue their own diplomas. No state graduation test exists. You decide when your student is ready.

For success:

• Plan four years of courses
• Create detailed transcripts
• Track credits and grades
• Save test scores
• Consider ACT or SAT
• Explore PSEO

Accordingly, start planning early. Ninth grade is not too soon. Know what target colleges want. Then, build toward their requirements.

PSEO: Free College

Honestly, this is huge. Don’t miss it. PSEO means free college courses. High schoolers take real classes. At real colleges. Importantly, homeschoolers can join.

Benefits:

• College credits in high school
• Real labs and courses
• Accredited transcripts
• Zero tuition

Generally, open to grades 10-12. Check the eligibility rules. Consequently, this gives homeschoolers an edge. Many save thousands in future tuition. Seriously consider this option.

Minnesota colleges with PSEO programs:

• University of Minnesota – Twin Cities main campus
• Minnesota State University – Mankato and Moorhead
• Century College – White Bear Lake area
• Normandale Community College – Bloomington metro
• Anoka-Ramsey Community College – North metro

Creating Transcripts

Build strong transcripts for college applications:

• Course titles – Clear names for each subject
• Credit hours – Track time spent on courses
• Grades – Assign letter grades fairly
• GPA calculation – Use standard 4.0 scale
• Activities – Sports, co-ops, community service
• Test scores – ACT, SAT, and standardized tests

Your Three Options

Independent Homeschool

Typically, most families go this way because it offers maximum freedom to file your notice, arrange testing, and pick your own materials, although this approach comes with maximum responsibility as well.

Accredited Programs

Alternatively, you can enroll in a distance program that lets you skip state testing and follow their established plan, which results in less logistics and more structure for busy families.

Co-ops

Finally, join a cooperative. Share teaching with others. Kids take classes together. Social benefits are huge. Indeed, many co-ops exist statewide. Great middle ground.

Common co-op offerings:

• Science labs – Hands-on experiments together
• Foreign languages – Practice with peers
• Art classes – Group projects and instruction
• Physical education – Team sports and fitness
• Music – Band, choir, and lessons
• Drama – Theater productions for students

Tips for Working Parents

Many Minnesota families homeschool while parents work:

• Flexible hours – Evenings and weekends count
• Self-paced curriculum – Kids work independently
• Co-op support – Share teaching duties
• Online programs – Structured learning while you work
• Extended family – Grandparents can help

Minnesota Resources

State Organizations

• HSLDA Minnesota – Legal help and support
• MN Department of Education – Official state info
• MACHE – Christian home educators

Regional Help

Active groups across the North Star State:

• Twin Cities – Many co-ops available
• Rochester – Southeast networks
• St. Cloud – Central region
• Duluth – Northeast area
• Greater MN – Rural groups

Additionally, search Facebook for local pages. MACHE connects families statewide. Join several groups. Find your fit. Ultimately, local support helps a lot.

Testing Resources

Luckily, many co-ops host testing events. MACHE has resources too. Ask around in your groups. You’ll find options nearby.

Special Cases

Special Needs

Interestingly, some public services may apply. Ask your local district what’s available. Alternative tests exist for documented disabilities. Meanwhile, homeschool lets you customize everything. Go at your child’s pace.

Benefits for special needs families:

• Custom pacing – Work at your child’s speed
• Sensory control – Create calm learning spaces
• Therapy scheduling – Fit appointments around school
• Individual focus – Address specific challenges
• Reduced stress – Learn without classroom pressure

Mid-Year Start

Fortunately, no problem at all. File within 15 days of beginning. Many families start in January. Others start in spring. Works fine.

Going Back to School

Understandably, if your child returns, they’ll test for placement. Your records help this process. Keep them organized. Transcripts matter.

Common Questions

Do I need a degree?

No, parents qualify automatically without needing any credentials or formal education background.

What about low test scores?

No penalty. No minimum exists. Tests just track progress.

Can I skip testing?

Yes. Use an accredited program. Many families choose this.

Can we play school sports?

Maybe. Depends on your district. Ask locally.

What if I’m late filing?

File now. Don’t wait. Late is better than never.

Does PSEO work for homeschoolers?

Yes! Free college courses await. Grades 10-12 qualify.

Start Your Minnesota Homeschool Journey Today

Clearly, the rules are manageable. File by October 1. Test yearly or use accredited programs. Cover ten subjects. That’s the path.

Next, join MACHE for support. Find local groups. Check out PSEO for older kids. Also, enjoy the state’s beauty for outdoor learning. Minnesota’s lakes, forests, and parks offer endless field trip opportunities.

The North Star State welcomes you. Start your homeschool journey today! Your family can thrive with a personalized education tailored to each child’s needs and interests. With clear laws, strong co-ops, and free PSEO college courses, Minnesota provides everything you need to succeed.

Related State Guides

Moving or comparing options? Check these neighboring state guides:

• How to Homeschool in Wisconsin
• How to Homeschool in Iowa
• How to Homeschool in North Dakota
• How to Homeschool in South Dakota
• How to Homeschool in Michigan

Official Links

• HSLDA Minnesota Laws
• MN Dept of Education
• Statutes 120A.22 and 120A.24