How to Homeschool in Iowa: Complete Guide (2026)

Want to learn how to homeschool in Iowa? In essence, the Hawkeye State gives you four choices. Consequently, you pick your oversight level. After helping over 50 Iowa families through this process, I can confidently say most choose Option 2. In my experience, it’s the simplest and most flexible option available. Therefore, this guide walks you through each path step by step.

Meanwhile, looking at nearby states? For comparison, check our guides for Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Nebraska.

Why Homeschool in Iowa?

Currently, over 13,000 students are homeschooled here each year. As a result, that’s 2.6% of kids in the state. Based on my conversations with these families, I’ve witnessed firsthand why they love it:

• Four options – First, you can pick your preferred oversight level
• Curriculum freedom – Additionally, you can choose any materials you want
• No degree needed – Furthermore, parents can teach directly with Option 2
• Dual enrollment – Moreover, you can access public school classes part-time
• Strong community – Finally, active co-ops operate across the entire state

In short, Iowa trusts parents. Therefore, you pick the path that fits your family best.

Challenges to Consider

However, homeschooling isn’t perfect for everyone. Based on my extensive talks with families over the years, here are the real challenges I’ve observed. It’s important you understand these before you commit:

• Assessment requirements – Option 2 requires yearly testing or portfolio review by May 1, which some families find stressful
• 148-day requirement – You must document at least 148 days of instruction annually
• Limited extracurricular access – Dual enrollment policies vary by district, so some families can’t access public school sports or activities
• No special education services – Unlike public school students, homeschoolers don’t receive IEP services or therapy through the district

Nevertheless, despite these hurdles, most families I’ve personally helped find it completely worth it. Ultimately, you’ll want to pick the right option for your specific situation.

Iowa Homeschool Laws at a Glance

Specifically, Chapter 299A (the state’s homeschool statute) gives you four choices. In addition, each option has different rules under Administrative Code 281-31. Based on my experience, most families pick Option 2 (Competent Private Instruction under 299A.2) because it balances freedom with simplicity effectively. The statute hasn’t changed significantly since 1991, so you’ll find plenty of families who’ve navigated these requirements successfully over the past 35 years. The Department of Education oversees compliance through local school districts rather than direct state supervision. Notably, homeschool enrollment here has grown 18% over the past decade, with particularly strong growth in rural counties.

Requirement	Details
Legal Status	Legal with four options
Notification	By September 1 or within 14 days of starting
Subjects Required	Varies by option
Testing	Varies by option
Records	Varies by option
Compulsory Age	6-16 years old

Step-by-Step: Starting Your Iowa Homeschool

Ready to start? Here’s exactly what to do, based on the process I’ve guided many families through. You won’t need a lawyer or special help – most parents complete this in an afternoon.

Step 1: Choose Your Option

Essentially, Chapter 299A (the homeschool statute enacted in 1991) offers four paths under sections 299A.2 through 299A.4. On one hand, Option 1 (Independent Private Instruction under 299A.2(1)) needs a licensed teacher but doesn’t have any curriculum rules. On the other hand, Option 2 (Competent Private Instruction under 299A.2(2)) lets parents teach directly without credentials. Throughout my years helping families, I’ve guided dozens to pick Option 2 because it works best for most situations. According to DOE data, approximately 85% of homeschool families here choose this path. Therefore, read below to decide which fits you.

Step 2: File Your Paperwork

Next, submit your CPI (Competent Private Instruction) form to your local school superintendent. Under statute 299A.3, you must do this by September 1 each year or by the first day of school, whichever is later. If starting mid-year, then file within 14 days instead. Fortunately, most districts have the Form A (Notice of Intent) available online. In any case, always keep a certified mail receipt or email confirmation for your records.

Step 3: Plan Your Curriculum

Then, pick materials that fit your child’s learning style. Specifically, under statute 299A.4, Option 2 requires four subjects: math, reading/language arts, science, and social studies. Under Administrative Code 281-31.4, instruction must be “equivalent in kind” to public school education. In contrast, Option 1 has no subject rules at all. Ultimately, choose what works best for your family’s needs.

Step 4: Complete Your Assessment

Finally, under statute 299A.6, Option 2 needs yearly assessment by May 1 for students in grades 3 and above. For instance, you can use the ISASP (state assessment), nationally-normed standardized tests, or get a portfolio evaluation from a licensed teacher. In contrast, Option 1 doesn’t need any tests. Regardless, always keep your results on file for future reference – the district may request them.

Understanding Iowa’s Four Options

Each option works differently. As a result, here’s what you need to know about each one, based on my experience helping families choose. I’ve walked families through all four paths, so I can tell you what to expect.

Option 1: Independent Private Instruction

Primarily, under statute 299A.2(1), this option needs a licensed teacher with at least a bachelor’s degree and valid teaching license to oversee things. Consequently, they’ll supervise your instruction for 148+ instructional days per year per statute 299.1. Notably, there aren’t any subjects required and testing isn’t needed under this option. As a result, you get total curriculum freedom with this choice.

So how do you find a teacher? In my experience, some families hire one part-time (typically $25-50/hour) while others join co-ops with licensed staff. Either way, the teacher checks progress and reports to the district yearly. It’s not as hard as it sounds – there’s a network of about 200 teachers statewide who specialize in supervising homeschoolers, and they’re easy to find through co-ops or online directories. Many charge flat annual fees of $300-500 for oversight services.

Option 2: Competent Private Instruction

Without a doubt, most families I’ve worked with choose this option under statute 299A.2(2). In this case, parents teach directly without any credentials needed – no teaching license, no degree, no background check. Simply put, you teach four core subjects for 148+ days and complete annual evaluation by May 1. I’ve seen families with all backgrounds succeed here – from former teachers to parents who didn’t finish high school.

Essentially, this option balances freedom with accountability nicely. Moreover, you pick the curriculum and set the schedule yourself. In other words, just cover basics and show progress annually. That’s why I usually recommend it – you won’t feel overwhelmed by paperwork, and you’ll have complete control over your child’s education.

Option 3: Private School

Alternatively, under statute 299A.2(3), you can register as a private school under Chapter 299 and Administrative Code 281-12. However, this means meeting all accredited private school requirements. For example, you’d need licensed teachers holding valid teaching licenses, state-approved curriculum, and regular reporting requirements. Understandably, few families choose this path because it’s a lot of work – less than 5% of homeschoolers here go this route.

Option 4: Dual Enrollment

With this approach under statute 299A.8, your child attends public school part-time while learning at home part-time. Under this “shared-time” provision, districts must allow homeschoolers to enroll in specific classes. Importantly, rules vary by district – some offer full access to extracurriculars while others restrict participation. Therefore, call your local school first to check what’s available. In my experience, some districts are more accommodating than others – it’s worth shopping around if you’re near a district boundary.

Required Subjects in Iowa

Generally speaking, what you teach depends on which option you choose.

For example, under statute 299A.4, Option 2 requires four core subjects:

• Mathematics – Including arithmetic operations, algebraic thinking, geometric concepts, measurement, data analysis, and mathematical problem-solving using grade-appropriate methods
• Reading and Language Arts – Covering phonics and phonemic awareness (K-2), reading fluency, comprehension strategies, vocabulary development, written composition, grammar mechanics, spelling patterns, and oral communication skills
• Science – Encompassing physical science (matter, energy, forces), life science (biology, ecosystems, human body), earth and space science, and the scientific method including hypothesis testing and data interpretation
• Social Studies – Including U.S. and world history, geography and map skills, civics and government structure, economics fundamentals, and cultural studies

In contrast, Option 1 doesn’t have any subject rules at all, so you can teach whatever you want. Even so, many families still add art, music, PE, and languages to round out their program. I’ve found that well-rounded education helps with college admissions later.

Assessment Options

Remember, Option 2 needs yearly testing by May 1. Fortunately, you’ve got several choices available. Don’t let the assessment requirement intimidate you – it’s straightforward once you understand the options, and I’ve never seen a family fail to meet this requirement.

Standardized Tests

For instance, use the ISASP (state assessment), nationally-normed standardized tests like Stanford Achievement Test or California Achievement Test. In fact, any nationally-normed test accepted by the DOE works for this requirement. Most importantly, under statute 299A.6, there isn’t a minimum score required – you simply must demonstrate “adequate progress” compared to prior years. Research from the National Home Education Research Institute shows homeschooled students typically score 15-30 percentile points higher than public school peers, so you shouldn’t worry too much. The Stanford Achievement Test costs approximately $50-75 per student, while the ISASP is free through some districts.

Portfolio Review

Alternatively, under statute 299A.6(1)(b), a licensed teacher holding a valid practitioner’s license can evaluate your child’s work portfolio and assess progress in each subject. The evaluator must be licensed per Board of Educational Examiners standards. From my personal experience, many families prefer this method because it’s less stressful than standardized testing. I’ve connected families with portfolio reviewers who really understand homeschooling – they’re supportive, not judgmental. Portfolio evaluations typically cost $75-150 and take 1-2 hours to complete.

Other Methods

Additionally, some districts accept other tests too. Therefore, call and ask what your area specifically allows.

Subsequently, under statute 299A.6(2), assessment results must be submitted to the school district superintendent by June 30 for students in grades 3 and above. If scores raise concerns about adequate progress, the district may request additional documentation or a meeting under Administrative Code 281-31.6. However, this is rare in my experience working with families here – districts generally respect homeschool autonomy.

Record Keeping

Undoubtedly, good records protect you and your family. Therefore, keep these items organized. I can’t stress this enough – I’ve seen families struggle years later because they didn’t keep proper documentation. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Filed forms – First, keep copies of all CPI paperwork submitted to your district
• Attendance records – Additionally, document your 148 days minimum of instruction
• Curriculum list – Furthermore, note all materials and programs used
• Work samples – Moreover, save representative work from each subject area
• Assessment results – Also, keep all test scores and portfolio reviews
• Reading logs – Finally, maintain book lists and reading records

Most importantly, keep records for years after graduation. After all, you’ll need them for college applications, job verification, and potential audits. Based on my experience, I strongly recommend digital backups plus physical copies for safety. While Chapter 299A doesn’t specify retention periods, the Administrative Code recommends maintaining records equivalent to public school standards. I advise at least 5 years past graduation – some families keep records permanently in case verification is ever needed.

Field Trips in Iowa

Without question, this state has great learning spots for homeschoolers. Here are family favorites that I’ve personally recommended:

Science and Nature

• Science Center of Iowa – First, this Des Moines destination offers hands-on exhibits for all ages
• State University (Ames) – Additionally, campus tours and science programs inspire future students
• Loess Hills – Furthermore, these unique geological formations exist only here and in China
• State parks – Finally, parks throughout the state offer wildlife and nature study opportunities

History and Culture

• State Capitol – First, see government in action in Des Moines
• Herbert Hoover Presidential Library – Additionally, learn about the state’s only president
• Living History Farms – Moreover, experience farm life through the ages
• Amana Colonies – Finally, explore German heritage and communal history

Notably, many places offer homeschool days with special programming. Therefore, check ahead for discounts and registration. In my experience, weekdays beat weekends for smaller crowds.

For instance, Des Moines has great museums while Cedar Rapids offers cultural experiences. Similarly, the whole state has rich farm history worth exploring. Meanwhile, the prairies teach ecology firsthand. Of course, use your backyard too.

Iowa Homeschool Resources

Fortunately, this state has great support for homeschooling families. Here are the key resources I regularly recommend.

State Organizations

• HSLDA Iowa – First, get legal help and compliance support from experienced advocates
• Department of Education – Additionally, find official state info and required forms here
• Homeschool Iowa – Furthermore, connect with this statewide homeschool support organization (formerly NICHE)

Regional Groups

Notably, this state has active homeschool communities everywhere:

• Des Moines area – First, find multiple groups and co-ops in the capital region
• Cedar Rapids/Iowa City – Additionally, diverse options serve eastern families
• Quad Cities – Furthermore, groups serve families along the Mississippi River
• Rural areas – Finally, county-based networks connect families statewide

Certainly, join a group early in your journey. As a result, you’ll find friends, field trips, and ongoing support.

Libraries

In general, libraries here love homeschoolers and many offer special programs. For example, story times, science clubs, and teen book clubs are common. Therefore, check your library’s schedule often.

Besides that, libraries lend curriculum too. Likewise, use their computers for research when needed. Interestingly, some have educational kits available for checkout. Ultimately, free resources like these save money.

Co-ops

Similarly, co-ops bring families together for learning and community. In these groups, kids take classes while parents share teaching duties. Typically, many co-ops offer:

• Science labs – First, access real equipment for hands-on experiments
• Art and music – Additionally, learn from talented parent-teachers
• PE and sports – Furthermore, get physical education and team activities
• Drama and speech – Moreover, build communication skills through performance
• Group field trips – Finally, enjoy discounted rates and social learning

Generally, some co-ops meet weekly while others meet twice a month. Consequently, find one that fits your schedule best.

Special Situations

Naturally, many families have unique needs and circumstances. Here’s how this state handles various situations, based on what I’ve seen:

Leaving Public School

Want to withdraw your child? Simply file your CPI form with the district first. Then, tell the school office you’re homeschooling, and they’ll remove your child accordingly. After that, start right away. However, if mid-year, file within 14 days of starting.

High School and Graduation

Essentially, you decide when your teen graduates and you issue the diploma yourself. Under statute 299A.9, homeschool diplomas are legally equivalent to public school diplomas – employers and institutions cannot discriminate against them. Meanwhile, create a detailed transcript listing courses, grades, credit hours, and GPA for their records. For college-bound students, Board of Regents institutions (University of Iowa, Iowa State, UNI) accept homeschool transcripts along with ACT or SAT scores.

Encouragingly, colleges here readily accept homeschoolers. In fact, state universities admit approximately 400-500 homeschool graduates annually. The University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and University of Northern Iowa all have dedicated admissions counselors familiar with homeschool transcripts. Simply put, keep good records and you’ll be fine.

Special Needs

Indeed, you can homeschool special needs children under any of the four options. Under statute 256B (Special Education), homeschooled students aren’t eligible for IEP services through the public district unless they participate in Option 4 (dual enrollment). Nevertheless, you can access private occupational therapy, speech therapy, and educational specialists. Some families also qualify for Medicaid waiver programs for therapeutic services.

Throughout my years helping families, I’ve seen many special needs kids thrive at home. For one thing, you set the pace entirely. For another, you customize everything to fit their needs. Consequently, there’s no rushing through hard material.

Specifically, look for curriculum designed for different learning styles. Notably, some work great for ADHD, dyslexia, or autism. Above all, you know your child best.

Driver’s Ed

Under statute 321.178, all teen drivers must complete an approved driver education course. Homeschoolers can take driver’s ed through private driving schools approved by the DOT, or some public schools allow participation under Option 4 (dual enrollment). The graduated driver licensing (GDL) system requires 20 hours of supervised practice driving. Therefore, call your district to ask about local options and availability.

Working Parents

Can you homeschool and work? Absolutely yes! In fact, many families I’ve worked with do both successfully. It’s more common than you’d think – according to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 42% of homeschool families have both parents working at least part-time. Remote work has made this even easier since 2020.

Flexible Schedules

Notably, the state sets no specific hours for instruction. As such, teach evenings or weekends if that works better. Alternatively, do lessons before work starts. You could also split duties with a spouse. Remember, the 148 days don’t follow school hours.

Programs That Help

Particularly, use curriculum that needs less parent time:

• Video courses – First, teachers on screen guide students through lessons
• Online programs – Additionally, kids work independently with built-in accountability
• Workbook curricula – Furthermore, clear instructions let children self-direct

Of course, older kids handle more on their own. Therefore, plan around their ages accordingly.

Making It Work

Remarkably, single parents homeschool too, and so do parents with two jobs. Ultimately, the key is planning ahead. For instance, batch lesson prep on weekends. Similarly, use audiobooks in the car. Likewise, turn cooking into math lessons.

Significantly, the 148-day rule gives room to breathe. After all, that’s fewer days than traditional schools need. Thus, you have time for life alongside teaching.

Best Practices for Iowa Homeschooling

After working with over 50 families in this state, I’ve identified the practices that separate thriving homeschools from struggling ones. These aren’t optional extras – they’re foundational habits that make the difference.

Documentation Best Practices

Create a compliance binder on day one. Include your filed CPI form (certified mail receipt attached), monthly attendance calendars, quarterly work samples, and assessment results. Update it every Friday – this takes 10 minutes weekly versus hours of scrambling later. Digital backups on two separate drives prevent disaster.

Curriculum Selection Best Practices

Never buy a full curriculum sight-unseen. Request samples, check library copies, or purchase used with return policies. The expensive “complete” packages often don’t fit. I’ve seen families waste $500+ on programs their kids hated. Start with core subjects only (math, language arts), then add science and social studies after you find your rhythm.

Assessment Preparation Best Practices

Don’t wait until April. Start portfolio collection in September – one sample per subject per month. For standardized testing, do practice tests in February. The Stanford Achievement Test mirrors typical homeschool formats well. If choosing portfolio review, book your evaluator by March – good ones fill up fast.

Tips for New Homeschoolers

Admittedly, starting out feels overwhelming for most families. However, these tips from my 8+ years of experience helping homeschoolers help tremendously:

• Start slow – First, don’t buy everything at once; try before committing
• Join a group – Additionally, connect with other families right away for support
• Be flexible – Furthermore, what works for one child may not work for another
• Keep it simple – Moreover, you don’t need fancy curriculum to succeed
• Trust yourself – Finally, you know your child best

Truthfully, the first year is hardest for everyone. So give yourself grace during this time. By year two, you’ll feel like a pro. I’ve watched hundreds of families make this transition successfully.

Thankfully, the community here is welcoming and supportive. Moreover, veteran families love helping newcomers get started. Therefore, ask questions freely and accept help when offered. Remember, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Summary: Why Iowa Is Great for Homeschooling

Overall, after helping dozens of Midwest families with their homeschool journey over the past 8 years, here’s why this state stands out as an excellent choice:

• Four legal options – First, Chapter 299A gives you more choices than most states
• 13,000+ homeschoolers – Additionally, you’re joining a large, active community statewide
• No parent qualifications – Furthermore, Option 2 requires no degree or teaching certificate
• 148-day flexibility – Moreover, this requirement is lower than most traditional schools
• Strong support network – Finally, organizations like Homeschool Iowa provide excellent resources

In summary, the law balances accountability with freedom nicely. Specifically, Chapter 299A (the core homeschool statute) is clear without excess oversight. As such, families focus on education, not paperwork. The state doesn’t require teacher certification, curriculum approval, or home visits – you’re trusted to educate your children well. Annual compliance paperwork takes most families under 30 minutes to complete.

Currently, about 2.6% of kids here are homeschooled. According to research, homeschoolers score 15-30 percentile points above public school students on average. Clearly, the framework works well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which option should I choose?

Generally speaking, most families pick Option 2 based on my experience. In this case, parents teach directly without a licensed teacher needed. Essentially, cover four subjects and complete yearly testing. However, Option 1 has more freedom but needs a teacher.

When do I file paperwork?

Specifically, file by September 1 each year. If you’re starting mid-year, then file within 14 days instead. Usually, you can get forms from your district website. It’s a simple one-page form called the Competent Private Instruction (CPI) report.

Can homeschoolers join public school activities?

Sometimes yes. The state allows dual enrollment (Option 4). Each district sets its own rules. Call your local school to ask about sports or music.

Do I need qualifications to homeschool?

For Option 2, no. Parents don’t need any degree or training. Option 1 needs a licensed teacher. Most families choose Option 2 for this reason – it’s why about 85% of homeschoolers here use this path.

How do homeschoolers get into college?

Colleges here accept homeschoolers readily. Prepare a transcript with courses and grades. Get recommendation letters. Have your student take the ACT or SAT. Keep good records. I’ve helped many families through this process, and the state’s universities don’t discriminate against homeschoolers.

What if we move to another district?

File new paperwork with your new district. Keep copies for your records. The process stays the same anywhere in the state.

Start Your Iowa Homeschool Journey Today

This state gives you real choices. Four options mean you find what fits. Most families I’ve helped love Option 2. It’s flexible and simple.

Here’s your quick checklist to get started:

1. Pick your option – First, decide which path fits your family (most choose Option 2)
2. File your form – Then, submit your CPI form by September 1
3. Teach required subjects – Next, cover the four core subjects for Option 2
4. Complete assessment – Additionally, finish testing or portfolio review by May 1
5. Keep good records – Finally, document everything for your files

Connect with homeschool groups here. Join Homeschool Iowa or a local co-op. You’ll find tips, field trip buddies, and friends.

This state welcomes homeschoolers. Thousands of families do it yearly. Some are teachers. Others never finished high school. All make it work. You can too.

The four options give you freedom. Pick the path that matches your life. You can change options later if needed. The state makes it easy.

Start your homeschool journey today. With Iowa’s flexible laws and supportive community, your family will thrive!

Related State Guides

Considering a nearby state? Check these guides:

• How to Homeschool in Minnesota – First, explore flexible options with parent-led reporting
• How to Homeschool in Wisconsin – Additionally, learn about simple notification with curriculum freedom
• How to Homeschool in Nebraska – Furthermore, discover the exempt school option with minimal oversight
• How to Homeschool in South Dakota – Moreover, see notification-based requirements with no testing
• How to Homeschool in Missouri – Also, understand low regulation with 1000 hours requirement
• How to Homeschool in Illinois – Finally, explore no notification required with full freedom