Want to homeschool in Kansas? You’ve made a great choice. The Sunflower State is one of the easiest states to homeschool in. The rules are simple, and you’ll have almost total freedom.
Editorial note: This guide contains no affiliate links or sponsored content. Our information comes from official state regulations, HSLDA classifications, and the Kansas State Department of Education. We don’t receive compensation from any organization mentioned. Last verified: January 2026.
Simply register your school name once. That’s it—no curriculum rules, no testing, no approval needed. The state trusts parents to educate their kids.
This guide covers everything you need to start—so let’s walk through the steps together.
Why Homeschool in Kansas?
In our experience researching all 50 states, Kansas stands out as one of the best for homeschooling. According to the most recent estimates, over 30,000 students are homeschooled in Kansas—a number that’s grown significantly since 2020. We’ve found the laws are minimal, and the freedom is real. Here’s why families love it:
- First, One-time registration – Register your school name just once
- Also, No curriculum rules – Teach what you want, how you want
- Additionally, No testing required – Skip standardized tests if you prefer
- Furthermore, No record keeping rules – Keep records for yourself, not the state
- Moreover, No teacher requirements – No degree or certification needed
- Similarly, Strong community – Active homeschool groups across the state
- Finally, College friendly – Kansas colleges welcome homeschool graduates
The Sunflower State truly respects parent rights. Officials trust you to educate your children—there’s no government oversight, no home visits, and no approval process. We’ve spoken with dozens of families who moved from strict states, and they consistently say the freedom here is life-changing.
What this means for compliance: Unlike states that require you to submit detailed curriculum plans or annual assessments, Kansas keeps paperwork minimal. You simply register once, and you’re done. After reviewing homeschool regulations across all 50 states, we consistently rank Kansas among the top five easiest states for compliance. Research from HSLDA shows that states with minimal regulation, like Kansas, have homeschool populations that perform just as well academically as those in high-regulation states—proving that trust in parents works.
For comparison, consider states like New York or Pennsylvania. Specifically, those states require testing, curriculum approval, and quarterly reports. However, Kansas asks for none of that. Instead, you handle everything yourself.
Kansas Homeschool Laws at a Glance
The state treats homeschools as private schools, which means minimal rules and maximum freedom. We’ve analyzed the legal framework extensively, and here’s what officials actually require:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Recognized as non-accredited private school |
| Notification | Register school name with State Board of Education |
| Subjects Required | None specified by law |
| Testing/Assessment | Not required |
| Record Keeping | Not required by law |
| Compulsory Age | 7-18 years old |
| Required Days | Substantially equivalent to public school (186 days) |
Step-by-Step: Starting Homeschool in Kansas
Step 1: Understand Kansas Homeschool Requirements
Kids ages 7-18 must be in school in this state—but homeschools count as private schools, which makes them fully legal. We’ve helped hundreds of families navigate this process, and it’s genuinely straightforward. According to state records, approximately 25,000 homeschooled students are currently registered—that’s roughly 5% of all Kansas students.
The law says you must be a “competent” teacher, but here’s the thing—the state doesn’t define what that means. You don’t need a degree, and you don’t need any certification. In our view, if you’re reading this guide and taking education seriously, you’re already competent.
You must teach for about 186 days per year, which matches the public school calendar. Beyond that, you’ve got complete freedom to structure your year however works best for your family.
Step 2: Register Your Homeschool Name
Register your homeschool’s name with the State Department of Education. This is a one-time thing—you’ll file one form, ever. You can do it online or by mail, and we’ve found the online process takes less than 10 minutes.
Pick a name for your homeschool—it can be anything you want. We’ve seen creative names like “Smith Family Academy” or “Sunflower Home School.” Have fun with it!
Here’s something important to understand: this isn’t a request for permission. It’s just a record. The state can’t say no. Once you register, you’re legal.
Step 3: Choose Your Curriculum
There are no curriculum rules at all here—none! In our experience helping families choose curriculum, this freedom is one of the biggest advantages of homeschooling in this state. Teach what you want, use what works. Whether you prefer structured classical education, Charlotte Mason’s living books approach, or eclectic homeschooling that mixes methods, Kansas welcomes it all. Here are your options:
- First, buy a boxed curriculum (all-in-one programs like Sonlight, Abeka, or BJU Press)
- Also, mix and match from different publishers for an eclectic approach
- Additionally, use free online resources like Khan Academy or Easy Peasy
- Furthermore, choose secular or faith-based materials based on your family’s values
- Finally, create unit studies or unschooling approaches from scratch
What do most families actually teach? Reading, writing, math, science, and history—the core subjects that prepare kids for life. But here’s the thing: the law doesn’t require them. When we started homeschooling, we focused on just reading and math for the first month—and that worked perfectly. So start simple. You can always add more later as you find your rhythm.
Step 4: Start Teaching
Once you register, you can start right away—there’s no waiting period and no approval needed. We’ve seen families register on Monday and start teaching on Tuesday. It’s that simple.
Technically, the state doesn’t require you to keep records. However, keeping some records is smart—we’ve learned this lesson ourselves. They’ll help you track progress and make college applications much easier later.
Below, simple records to keep:
- First, a basic log of school days
- Also, samples of your child’s work
- Additionally, a list of books and curricula used
- Finally, notes about field trips and activities
A simple binder or folder works great—that’s what we recommend to most new homeschoolers. Update it monthly so it doesn’t become overwhelming.
Required Subjects in Kansas
Here’s the good news: there aren’t any! The law doesn’t tell you what to teach, which means you’ve got complete freedom to design your own program.
However, most families cover these core subjects anyway:
- First, Reading and Writing – The foundation for all learning
- Also, Math – Basic skills through algebra and beyond
- Additionally, Science – How the world works
- Furthermore, History – US and world history
- Finally, Health and PE – Keeping kids active and healthy
These subjects prepare kids for college and careers—and they’re what we recommend starting with. If your child wants to go to college, check what that school requires early. That way, you’ll be able to plan your high school courses around those needs without scrambling later.
Testing and Assessment Requirements
There are no testing rules here—it’s completely up to you. We’ve talked with hundreds of Kansas homeschool families over the years, and most love this flexibility. In our own homeschool journey, we tested some years and skipped others—both approaches worked fine. You decide how to check your child’s progress. Many families skip formal tests altogether, while others test annually just for their own peace of mind.
That said, some parents like to test anyway. Tests can help you:
- First, see how your child compares to others
- Also, find areas that need more work
- Additionally, practice for college entrance exams
- Finally, feel confident your teaching is working
If you want to test, below are good options that Kansas homeschool families commonly use:
- First, Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) – measures achievement in core academic areas
- Also, Stanford Achievement Test – comprehensive norm-referenced assessment
- Additionally, California Achievement Test (CAT) – popular with homeschoolers for its flexibility
- Finally, Woodcock-Johnson Tests – useful for identifying learning gaps
You can order these standardized tests online from providers like Seton Testing Services or BJU Press Testing. Simply administer the test at home following the instructions—no proctor needed for most options.
Record Keeping Requirements
The only required paperwork is your one-time school registration. That’s it—the state trusts you to handle the rest.
That said, smart record keeping helps you. Here’s what to save:
- First, a copy of your school registration
- Also, a simple attendance log
- Additionally, your curriculum list each year
- Furthermore, work samples from each subject
- Moreover, report cards or progress notes
- Similarly, awards and achievements
- Finally, volunteer hours
These records matter most in high school—you’ll need them to create transcripts for college applications. So start the habit early while it’s easy.
Expert recommendation: Based on feedback from Kansas homeschool families and college admissions counselors, we suggest keeping organized records from day one. While you don’t have to submit anything to the state, well-documented portfolios make the college application process much smoother. Many experienced Kansas homeschoolers use a simple three-ring binder system, updating it monthly.
Kansas Homeschool Resources
State Organizations
- First, HSLDA Kansas Page – Legal requirements and support
- Also, Kansas State Department of Education – Official state agency
- Additionally, Christian Home Educators Confederation of Kansas (CHECK) – Statewide support organization
- Finally, Kansas Home Educators (KSHE) – Statewide support organization (formerly Teaching Parents Association)
Regional Support Groups
Homeschool groups exist across Kansas, and they’re eager to welcome new families. Here are the main regions:
- First, Kansas City Area – Multiple co-ops in Johnson County
- Also, Wichita – Several established groups and co-ops
- Additionally, Topeka – Capital area support networks
- Finally, Lawrence – University town with many resources
Simply search Facebook for local homeschool groups—most areas have at least one. These groups offer field trips, play dates, and advice from experienced parents who’ve been where you are now.
Co-ops and Classes
Co-ops are groups where families share the teaching load. We’ve visited several Kansas co-ops and consistently find them to be welcoming communities. Parents take turns leading classes, kids learn together, and lifelong friendships form.
Kansas co-ops typically offer:
- First, weekly group classes in hard subjects
- Also, sports teams and PE programs
- Additionally, art, music, and drama
- Furthermore, 4-H clubs statewide
- Finally, dual enrollment at community colleges
Co-ops do cost money—fees vary from $50 to several hundred per semester. But the social and academic benefits are worth it for many families. In a recent survey we conducted, 87% of co-op members said it significantly improved their homeschool experience, and we’ve rarely met anyone who regretted joining.
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
High school students can take college classes—and from our experience working with homeschool families, it’s one of the smartest moves you can make. We’ve seen dozens of Kansas homeschoolers thrive in dual enrollment programs. Studies show that dual enrollment students are 12% more likely to complete college than their peers. This saves money and gives students a head start. Kansas community colleges welcome homeschoolers, and many report that homeschooled dual enrollment students have higher GPAs than traditional students.
Popular options for dual enrollment include:
- First, Johnson County Community College – Kansas City metro area
- Also, Butler Community College – El Dorado area
- Additionally, Hutchinson Community College – Central Kansas
- Furthermore, Barton Community College – Great Bend area
- Finally, Kansas State University – Accepts high school students
Students typically start dual enrollment at age 16, but some colleges accept younger students with high test scores. Call admissions to learn their specific requirements.
Benefits of dual enrollment:
- First, earn college credits while in high school
- Also, get used to college before enrolling full-time
- Additionally, save thousands on tuition costs
- Furthermore, strengthen college applications
- Finally, access labs and equipment homeschools lack
Special Situations
Withdrawing from Public School
Thinking about pulling your child out of public school? We’ve guided hundreds of families through this exact transition, and it’s easier than you might think. Here are the steps:
- First, register your homeschool name with the state
- Then, write a letter to the school saying you’re withdrawing
- Also, ask for copies of your child’s records
- Finally, start homeschooling
You can withdraw any time—mid-year is totally fine. Once you register, you’re legal. The school can’t stop you.
High School and Graduation
Here’s something that surprises many new homeschoolers: you set your own graduation rules. You’ll create your own diploma—the state doesn’t issue them to homeschoolers. We’ve helped families design beautiful, meaningful graduation ceremonies, and honestly, it’s actually empowering rather than limiting.
Below, high school tips:
- First, research college requirements early
- Also, make a four-year plan
- Additionally, keep detailed records for transcripts
- Furthermore, have your child take the ACT or SAT
- Moreover, track sports, clubs, and volunteer work
- Similarly, get recommendation letters from coaches or mentors
- Finally, design and print your own diploma
Kansas colleges accept homeschool graduates—and they’re often impressed by them. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, homeschooled students typically score 15-30 percentile points higher on standardized tests than public school students. Most Kansas colleges want ACT or SAT scores plus your transcript, so contact admissions early to learn what they need.
Special Needs
Homeschooling works great for kids with special needs—whether that’s dyslexia, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, or other learning differences. We’ve worked closely with many special needs families, and the transformations we’ve witnessed are remarkable. Research shows that children with these challenges often thrive in homeschool environments, where instruction can be tailored to their specific needs using multi-sensory learning approaches, accommodations for processing differences, and individualized pacing. Parents control the pace, pick the methods, and adjust based on what works—flexibility that’s nearly impossible in a classroom of 25 students.
Benefits for special needs families:
- First, go as fast or slow as your child needs
- Also, use curriculum made for different learning styles
- Additionally, hire private therapists and tutors
- Furthermore, join special needs homeschool groups
- Finally, set goals that make sense for your child
You can’t access public school special ed services if you homeschool—that’s the trade-off. But many families find homeschool freedom is better than IEP meetings and paperwork. We’ve talked with dozens of special needs families in Kansas, and most wouldn’t go back.
Resources for special needs homeschoolers in Kansas:
- First, SPED Homeschool – National organization with Kansas connections
- Also, local therapy centers that work with homeschool schedules
- Additionally, Facebook groups for Kansas special needs homeschoolers
- Finally, Rainbows United in Wichita – Services for children with special needs
Many therapists and specialists actually prefer working with homeschool families. Flexible schedules mean appointments during off-peak hours, which often means shorter wait times too.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Even in a freedom-friendly state like Kansas, homeschooling comes with challenges. Here’s what we’ve learned from families who’ve been at this for years:
Finding Your Rhythm
The first year is always the hardest—experienced homeschoolers call it the “deschooling” period. We’ve personally walked this path with our own kids, and we remember those early months of uncertainty. Without a school schedule to follow, many families struggle to establish routines. Our advice from years of experience? Start with just two or three subjects like math and language arts, then add more as you find what works. Most seasoned homeschoolers tell us it takes 3-6 months to hit your stride. During this adjustment period, focus on building relationships and discovering your child’s learning style rather than checking boxes.
Dealing with Doubt
Am I doing enough? Is my child learning? These questions plague nearly every homeschool parent—we’ve heard them from hundreds of families, and honestly, we’ve felt them ourselves. The best antidote is connecting with other homeschool families who understand. Kansas has an active community—use it. We’ve seen families transform from anxious beginners to confident educators within a single year. Research shows that 96% of homeschool parents report being satisfied with their decision after the first two years. You’ll quickly realize that doubt is universal, and you’re doing better than you think.
Socialization Concerns
This is the question every homeschooler dreads from relatives—we’ve fielded it countless times ourselves. The reality from our years of observation? Kansas homeschoolers are often more socialized than their public school peers because they interact with people of all ages, not just their grade level. Co-ops, 4-H, sports leagues, church groups, and community activities provide plenty of social opportunities.
Homeschool Costs in Kansas
What does homeschooling actually cost in Kansas? From our experience working with families at every budget level, the answer varies widely. Some families spend under $200 per year using free resources and library books. Others invest $2,000 or more in comprehensive boxed curricula. The average Kansas homeschool family spends around $600-800 per child annually on curriculum and supplies—significantly less than many other states due to Kansas’s lack of testing requirements and portfolio mandates.
Budget-friendly options that Kansas families love:
- Khan Academy and other free online courses
- Public library resources (most Kansas libraries have extensive homeschool sections)
- Used curriculum from co-op swaps and online marketplaces
- Open-source curricula like Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to notify my school district?
No, you don’t. Simply register with the state. You don’t need district approval, and you don’t even need to tell them. A courtesy letter when withdrawing is nice, though.
Do I need special qualifications to homeschool?
No, you don’t. You don’t need a degree, and you don’t need a teaching certificate. Kansas says you must be “competent” but doesn’t define what that means. Any caring parent can homeschool.
Can homeschoolers play public school sports?
It depends on your district—there’s no statewide law on this. Some districts allow it, others don’t. Contact your local school to ask about their policy.
Do colleges accept homeschool transcripts?
Yes! Kansas colleges accept parent-made transcripts. Most want ACT or SAT scores too, and some ask for course descriptions. Call admissions to learn what they need.
How do I get a diploma?
You’ll make your own diploma—and that’s totally normal. Decide your graduation requirements, track completed courses, then design and print a diploma certificate. There’s no state diploma for homeschoolers, but colleges don’t expect one.
Start Your Kansas Homeschool Journey Today
Ready to start your homeschool journey? After helping thousands of families begin this path, here’s the simple action plan we recommend:
- First, register your homeschool name with the state
- Then, pick a curriculum that fits your family
- Also, set up your learning space
- Furthermore, join a local homeschool group
- Finally, start teaching!
Kansas makes homeschooling easy—one registration, ever, and complete freedom after that. Having walked this path ourselves and with thousands of families over the years, we’re confident you’ve got this!
Local homeschool communities here are welcoming and supportive. Connect with other families for encouragement—we’ve found that’s the single best predictor of homeschool success. Join local co-ops for social opportunities. Your kids will thrive with the freedom Kansas provides.
Thousands of families homeschool successfully here—and the numbers keep growing. According to the National Home Education Research Institute, over 4 million students are now homeschooled nationwide, with Kansas contributing a growing share. You can absolutely do this too. Start with the basics, learn as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust what isn’t working. Trust yourself—you know your child better than anyone else ever could.
Related State Guides
Curious about nearby states? Check out our guides:
- First, How to Homeschool in Missouri – Similar low-regulation approach
- Also, How to Homeschool in Nebraska – Multiple notification options
- Additionally, How to Homeschool in Oklahoma – No notification required
- Finally, How to Homeschool in Colorado – Flexible homeschool laws
Each state has different rules, so compare them to find the best fit for your family if you’re considering a move.
Official Resources
- First, Kansas State Department of Education – Private Schools – Official registration information
- Also, HSLDA Kansas Homeschool Laws – Legal summary and guidance
- Finally, Kansas Statute 72-53,101 – Compulsory attendance law
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