Indiana is widely recognized as one of the most flexible states for homeschooling in the country. In the eyes of the law, a homeschool is considered a “non-public, non-accredited school.” This status provides parents with significant autonomy over their child’s education, curriculum, and schedule.

The Legal Landscape

Unlike many other states, Indiana does not require parents to register with the state, seek approval for their curriculum, or possess specific teaching credentials. However, with this freedom comes the responsibility of the parent to ensure they are meeting the state’s basic educational standards.

Compulsory Attendance

In Indiana, children must receive formal education from the age of 7 until they reach the age of 18. If a child is enrolled in a public school before age 7 (such as for kindergarten), they are subject to compulsory attendance rules until they are formally withdrawn.

The Primary Pathway: Non-Public School Status

Every homeschool in Indiana operates under the legal status of a private school. To remain compliant with Indiana Code § 20-33-2-28 and related statutes, families must meet four main criteria:

1. Equivalent Instruction: You must provide instruction that is “equivalent” to what is provided in public schools. While the state does not define this through mandatory curriculum, it is widely understood to include core subjects: English, reading, writing, spelling, grammar, mathematics, social studies, science, health, and physical education.
2. Instructional Days: You must provide instruction for the same number of days as the public schools in your local district, which is almost always 180 days per year (IC 20-33-2-8).
3. Attendance Records: You are legally required to keep a daily record of your child’s attendance. This does not need to be submitted to the state, but it must be kept on file and made available if the local superintendent or the State Superintendent of Public Instruction requests to see it (IC 20-33-2-20).
4. English Language: Instruction must be conducted in English.

Step-by-Step Compliance Guide

1. Withdrawal (If Applicable)

If your child is currently enrolled in a public or private school, you must formally withdraw them. Although the law doesn’t require a specific form, it is best practice to send a written letter of withdrawal to the school principal. This prevents the school from marking your child as truant.

2. Choose Your Curriculum

Indiana does not provide or mandate a specific curriculum. You have the total freedom to choose a secular, religious, or eclectic approach that fits your child’s needs.

3. Record Attendance

Use a simple planner, calendar, or digital tool to mark each day you provide instruction. You do not need to record hours or grades by law, but keeping samples of work and a basic transcript is highly recommended for high schoolers.

4. Optional Registration

The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) has a voluntary online registration form. While the IDOE encourages this for data collection, it is not legally required and does not grant the state any extra authority over your homeschool.

Testing and Assessment

Standard homeschoolers in Indiana are not required to participate in state testing (like ILEARN) or any other form of standardized assessment. Parents may choose to administer private tests to track progress, but results do not need to be reported to any government agency.

Financial Benefits: The Tax Deduction

Indiana is one of the few states that provides a tax benefit for homeschoolers. Under Indiana Code § 6-3-2-22, parents can claim a $1,000 tax deduction per child for unreimbursed homeschooling expenses (such as textbooks, software, and supplies). Be sure to save your receipts.

Education Scholarship Accounts (ESA)

For families of children with disabilities, the Indiana ESA program offers a way to access state funding for educational needs. However, choosing this path changes your legal status from a “standard homeschooler” to an “ESA student.” ESA students are required to take state assessments (ILEARN) and must use their funds with state-approved providers. If you prefer total autonomy and wish to avoid state testing, the standard homeschool pathway is the better choice.

Important Contacts

• Indiana Department of Education (IDOE): The official state resource for homeschool information and voluntary registration.
• Indiana Association of Home Educators (IAHE): A state-level organization providing support and advocacy.
• HSLDA: For legal defense and detailed statutory analysis.