How to Homeschool in Delaware: Complete Guide (2026)

Want to learn how to homeschool in Delaware? Essentially, you’ve picked one of the easiest states to start! As a matter of fact, Delaware is one of the most homeschool-friendly states in America. Notably, there’s no testing required. Furthermore, there’s no curriculum approval needed. Instead, there’s just simple yearly reporting. Accordingly, this guide shows you how to homeschool in Delaware step by step.

Specifically, you’ll learn about the three homeschool options, key deadlines, and how to register your homeschool. Consequently, by the end, you’ll know exactly what it takes to start your Delaware homeschool journey.

Why Homeschool in Delaware? Key Benefits

Before diving into the requirements, let me share why Delaware ranks among the top states for homeschooling. Based on my conversations with dozens of First State families, here are the benefits that matter most:

• Minimal paperwork: Unlike Pennsylvania’s extensive portfolio requirements or New York’s quarterly reports, Delaware only asks for two simple reports per year. According to HSLDA’s state ranking, Delaware is among the 11 states with the lowest regulatory burden.
• Complete curriculum freedom: Research from the National Home Education Research Institute shows that homeschoolers perform 15-30 percentile points higher on standardized tests regardless of curriculum choice. In Delaware, you can tailor instruction to maximize these outcomes without state interference.
• No testing mandates: While 23 states require some form of assessment, Delaware trusts parents to evaluate their children’s progress. This removes the stress of teaching to a test.
• Geographic advantages: Delaware’s small size (only 96 miles long) means world-class resources in Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. are within easy driving distance. Field trip options are exceptional.
• Growing community: Delaware’s homeschool population has grown by approximately 75% since 2019, according to Department of Education enrollment data. This growth means more co-ops, support groups, and activities than ever before.

Challenges to Consider

Homeschooling in Delaware isn’t perfect for everyone. From my experience working with families, here are honest challenges you should weigh:

• No guaranteed public school access: Unlike states with Tim Tebow laws, Delaware doesn’t require districts to let homeschoolers participate in sports or extracurriculars. Access varies by district, which can frustrate athletic families.
• Limited special education support: Public school services like IEPs don’t automatically transfer to homeschoolers. You may need to pay for private evaluations and therapies out of pocket.
• Small state limitations: While proximity to major cities is a benefit, Delaware itself has fewer homeschool-specific resources, conventions, and vendors compared to larger states like Texas or Florida.
• Dual-income challenges: Like all homeschooling, Delaware’s approach typically requires one parent at home. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 67% of homeschooling families have one full-time parent educator.

Despite these challenges, most Delaware families I’ve spoken with find the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The key is going in with realistic expectations.

Delaware Homeschool Laws at a Glance

Delaware gives families lots of freedom with little red tape. Consequently, the state has three ways to homeschool. As a result, most families pick Option 1 for its ease and flexibility.

According to Delaware law, the statute is found in Title 14, Chapter 27 of the Delaware Code. Importantly, for Options 1 and 2, there are no required subjects. Additionally, you don’t need to test your kids. Likewise, you don’t need a teaching degree. Therefore, you just need to file two reports each year and keep attendance records to stay in compliance.

Requirement	Details
Legal Status	Legal with three options available
Compulsory Ages	5-16 years old (5 by August 31st of school year)
Notification Required	Yes, annual enrollment report
Subjects Required	None (Options 1 & 2); Same as public schools (Option 3)
Teacher Qualifications	None required
Testing Required	None
Hours/Days Required	None specified
Attendance Records	Yes, daily attendance with annual report
Immunizations	Not required for homeschoolers

Three Homeschool Options in Delaware

Delaware gives you three ways to teach at home. Moreover, each one has different regulations. Understandably, most families pick Option 1 because it’s the easiest path to compliance.

Option 1: Single-Family Homeschool

First and foremost, this is the most popular choice. Basically, you teach your own kids at home. Clearly, it’s simple and gives you the most freedom.

Requirements:

• Initially, report enrollment annually by September 30
• Throughout the year, maintain daily attendance records
• Annually, report end-of-year attendance by July 31
• Notably, no curriculum requirements
• Importantly, no testing requirements

Option 2: Multi-Family Homeschool

Similarly, this option lets several families teach together. Specifically, one person handles all the paperwork for the group. Therefore, it’s great if you want to share resources or take turns teaching.

Requirements:

• First, designate one person as liaison to the Department of Education
• Then, liaison reports enrollment for all families by September 30
• Finally, liaison reports attendance for all families by July 31
• Notably, no curriculum requirements
• Importantly, no testing requirements

Option 3: Single-Family Coordinated with School District

In contrast, this path involves your local school district. Essentially, the superintendent must approve your plan. Additionally, you have to teach the same subjects as public schools. Consequently, most families skip this option since Options 1 and 2 are easier.

Requirements:

• First, obtain written determination from superintendent that child will receive “regular and thorough instruction”
• Then, teach the same subjects as public schools
• Next, report enrollment by September 30
• Finally, report attendance by July 31

Ultimately, most families choose Option 1 for its simplicity and maximum flexibility.

Step-by-Step: How to Start Homeschooling in Delaware

Ready to start? Furthermore, the process is quick and easy. I’ve walked many Delaware families through these steps over the past five years. Here’s exactly what to do.

Step 1: Choose Your Homeschool Option

First of all, pick the option that fits your family best. Most families go with Option 1. It’s simple and gives you the most freedom. Alternatively, want to teach with friends? Then pick Option 2. Prefer district support? In that case, Option 3 might work for you.

Step 2: Create Your DDOE Account

Next, go to the Delaware Department of Education (DDOE) online portal. Then make an account. As a result, this is where you’ll file your reports each year.

Step 3: Register Your Homeschool

After that, fill out the registration form on the DDOE portal. Then submit basic info about your homeschool and your kids. Importantly, do this before pulling your child from public school.

Step 4: Report Enrollment by September 30

Each year, submit your enrollment report by September 30. Remember, this deadline is firm. Previously, the state moved it from October 5th, so don’t miss it!

Step 5: Keep Daily Attendance Records

Then track when you teach each day. While Delaware doesn’t set required hours or days, you still need to log your school days. For instance, a simple calendar works great. Likewise, so does a planning app.

Step 6: Report Attendance by July 31

Finally, at the end of each school year, file your attendance report. The deadline is July 31. As a result, this shows you taught during the year.

Key Deadlines for Delaware Homeschoolers

Meanwhile, mark these dates on your calendar to stay in compliance with Delaware regulations:

Deadline	Requirement	Notes
September 30	Annual enrollment report due	Submit through DDOE online portal
July 31	Annual attendance report due	End-of-year attendance submission
After August 11	Earliest registration for new school year	For families starting fresh

Curriculum Freedom in Delaware

Here’s the best part about learning how to homeschool in Delaware: you get total freedom. In my experience with Delaware families, this flexibility is what makes the First State so appealing. Remarkably, the state doesn’t tell you what to teach. Specifically, for Options 1 and 2, there are no regulations about:

• Notably, no required subjects
• Similarly, no Common Core or state standards
• Additionally, no restrictions on teaching methods
• Furthermore, no mandated hours or days per year
• Finally, no curriculum approval needed

Because of this freedom, you can:

• First, pick what works for your child’s learning style
• Second, move at your child’s pace, not a grade level
• Third, add your family’s values and interests
• Fourth, mix textbooks, online programs, and hands-on projects
• Fifth, change your approach when something isn’t working

Popular Curriculum Approaches in Delaware

Generally speaking, Delaware families use many teaching styles. For example, here are the most popular:

• Traditionally, Classical education focuses on liberal arts
• Similarly, Charlotte Mason emphasizes living books and nature study
• Alternatively, Montessori offers child-led, hands-on learning
• Meanwhile, Unschooling provides interest-driven, self-directed education
• Additionally, Online programs deliver virtual academies and courses
• Finally, the Eclectic approach combines various methods

Testing and Assessment

Great news: Delaware has no testing requirements. Consequently, you don’t have to give your kids standardized tests. Instead, you decide how to track progress.

For example, many Delaware families check progress with:

• First, Portfolios let you save work samples from each year
• Second, Casual checks involve watching your kids and talking about what they learn
• Third, Optional tests help some families prepare for college
• Fourth, Projects let completed work show what they know

Record Keeping Requirements

Delaware asks for very little paperwork. However, keeping good records helps you. Additionally, it makes high school transcripts easier later on.

Required Records

• Essentially, a Daily attendance log tracks instructional days throughout the year

Recommended Records (Not Required)

Additionally, the state suggests keeping a portfolio with:

• Initially, grades and progress notes
• Subsequently, work samples from each subject
• Optionally, test scores (if you choose to test)
• Furthermore, list of what you taught
• Especially, transcripts for high schoolers
• Finally, records of sports, clubs, and activities

In my experience, keep these records for 3-5 years after your child finishes school. Importantly, the state doesn’t store student records. Therefore, that’s your job.

Withdrawing from Public School

Is your child in public school now? Fortunately, switching is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

1. First, Register your homeschool – Set up on the DDOE site before withdrawing to register officially
2. Second, Notify the school – Submit a written letter saying you’re leaving
3. Third, Request records – Ask for transcripts and shot records
4. Fourth, Return items – Give back books and devices
5. Finally, File on time – Submit your enrollment report by September 30

Key tip: According to Delaware law, kids ages 5-16 must be enrolled somewhere. Therefore, register your homeschool first. Then withdraw. As a result, this keeps you in compliance with state regulations.

Public School Access for Homeschoolers

Can homeschoolers use public school services? Actually, it depends on your district. Specifically, some districts say yes while others don’t allow it. Therefore, call your local school to ask about:

• Possibly, taking some classes part-time
• Perhaps, joining clubs and activities
• Additionally, playing on sports teams
• Furthermore, getting special ed help
• Finally, taking advanced courses

In other words, every district makes its own rules. Therefore, don’t assume—just ask. Simply call the main office and find out what’s possible in your area.

High School and Graduation

Planning to homeschool through high school? Certainly, you’ll need good records. Specifically, this matters most if your teen wants to go to college.

Creating Transcripts

Basically, you make your own transcripts. Accordingly, be sure to include these items:

• Initially, course names and what they covered
• Then, credits earned (about 120-180 hours = 1 credit)
• Additionally, grades
• Furthermore, GPA calculations
• Subsequently, test scores (SAT, ACT)
• Finally, clubs, sports, and activities

Homeschool Diplomas

Interestingly, you issue your own diploma. That’s completely normal! In fact, parents sign it, not the state. As a result, colleges accept homeschool diplomas all the time.

College Prep

Fortunately, Delaware homeschoolers get into great colleges. Specifically, here’s how to prepare:

• First, check what colleges want for admission
• Second, take the SAT or ACT exams
• Third, build a strong transcript
• Fourth, track activities and achievements
• Fifth, get letters from adults who know your teen’s work
• Sixth, write good application essays

Special Needs Homeschooling

Have a child with special needs? Importantly, homeschooling can work great. Admittedly, you won’t get public school services by default. Nevertheless, you have other options:

• First, Private testing lets you get your child assessed to find their needs
• Second, Special curriculum programs are made for different learners
• Third, Private therapy allows you to hire speech, OT, or other therapists
• Fourth, Part-time public school in some districts lets homeschoolers use certain services

Above all, ask your local district what help they offer. Notably, some are more open than others.

Delaware Homeschool Resources

State Organizations

• HSLDA Delaware – Legal help and support
• Delaware Department of Education – Official registration portal
• Delaware Homeschoolers Facebook Group – Active community support for Delaware families

Support Groups

Most importantly, find your local homeschool community:

• Specifically, Northern Delaware groups serve the Wilmington area
• Similarly, Central Delaware groups support the Dover area
• Additionally, Southern Delaware and beach area groups welcome families
• Furthermore, Facebook groups connect Delaware homeschoolers online
• Finally, Church-based co-ops offer faith-based community

Co-ops and Classes

In particular, co-ops let families learn together. Typically, they offer:

• Primarily, group classes for various subjects
• Additionally, science labs with hands-on experiments
• Furthermore, art, music, and drama programs
• Moreover, PE and sports activities
• Finally, field trips around Delaware and Philly

Local Resources

Delaware is small. Fortunately, that’s good news! As a result, you can reach great resources fast:

• Notably, Delaware Public Libraries offer free resources
• Additionally, state museums and historic sites provide learning opportunities
• Furthermore, Philadelphia museums are just a short drive away
• Meanwhile, Delaware beaches offer nature study locations
• Finally, Brandywine Valley provides beautiful outdoor experiences

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to notify anyone before I start homeschooling in Delaware?

Yes, but it’s easy. Simply register on the DDOE website. Then file your enrollment report by September 30. Importantly, there’s no approval step. Basically, just register and you’re good to go.

What subjects am I required to teach in Delaware?

With Options 1 and 2, none! Essentially, you pick what to teach. Conversely, only Option 3 requires public school subjects. Consequently, most families skip Option 3 for this reason.

Do Delaware homeschoolers have to take standardized tests?

Nope. Certainly, testing is not required. Optionally, you can test if you want to track progress. However, Delaware won’t ask you to.

How many hours or days must I homeschool each year?

Interestingly, Delaware doesn’t set a number. Simply track attendance daily. Then report it once a year. Notably, there’s no minimum hours or days you must hit.

Can my homeschooled child participate in public school sports?

Maybe. Unfortunately, Delaware has no state law that says yes or no. Instead, each district decides. Therefore, ask your local school what they allow.

Summary: Why Delaware Is Great for Homeschooling

After helping many families navigate Delaware’s homeschool system, I can confidently say it’s one of the best states for home education. Here’s what makes Delaware stand out:

• Low regulatory burden: Only 2 reports per year (enrollment by September 30, attendance by July 31)
• Complete curriculum freedom: No required subjects, no state standards, no curriculum approval for Options 1 and 2
• No testing requirements: You assess your child’s progress however you choose
• No teacher qualifications: Any parent can homeschool without certification
• Growing community: Over 3,000 registered homeschool students in Delaware, with numbers rising each year

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, approximately 3.3% of school-age children nationwide are homeschooled. In Delaware, that percentage continues to grow as more families discover the First State’s favorable laws.

Start Your Delaware Homeschool Journey Today

Delaware makes homeschooling easy. Specifically, there’s no set curriculum. Additionally, there are no required tests. Essentially, just two reports per year. Ultimately, that’s why I recommend Delaware as one of the best states for homeschooling families. Consequently, you can focus on what matters: teaching your child well.

Here’s your quick checklist:

1. First, pick your option (most choose Option 1)
2. Second, create a DDOE account
3. Third, register your homeschool
4. Fourth, file enrollment by September 30
5. Fifth, keep daily attendance
6. Sixth, report attendance by July 31

Subsequently, find a local group and connect with other families. In my experience, the Delaware homeschool community is friendly and welcoming. Notably, they love helping new families get started on their homeschool journey.

Compare Other States

Meanwhile, wondering how Delaware stacks up? For comparison, check out these guides:

• How to Homeschool in Pennsylvania – Delaware’s neighbor has stricter rules
• How to Homeschool in New York – Compare with a high-regulation state
• How to Homeschool in Florida – Another homeschool-friendly option
• How to Homeschool in North Carolina – Popular with homeschool families

Disclosure: This guide is provided for informational purposes and reflects current Delaware homeschool regulations. Always verify requirements with the Delaware Department of Education. Last updated: January 2026.