New York Homeschool Laws & Requirements
Here's what New York requires of homeschooling families, reviewed for the 2026 school year.
What New York requires
Notification / Filing
Submit letter of intent by July 1 (or 14 days after starting). Submit Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP) within 30 days of district response.
Required Subjects
Arithmetic, Reading, Spelling, Writing, English, Geography, U.S. History, Science, Health, Music, Visual Arts, Physical Education, Patriotism, Citizenship, Highway Safety, Fire Safety, Substance Abuse Prevention
Instructional Days
180 days/year. 900 hours for grades 1-6, 990 for grades 7-12.
Standardized Testing
Annual assessment: standardized test in grades 4, 6, 8, and every year in 9-12 (above 33rd percentile). Alternative evaluation in non-testing years.
Portfolio / Records
Submit quarterly reports and annual assessment to school district. Quarterly reports include hours, material covered, and grade or narrative evaluation.
Immunization
Must comply with state immunization requirements.
Withdrawing from Public School
Submit a letter of intent to the school district, then an IHIP.
Additional Notes
New York is one of the most regulated states. Requires letter of intent, IHIP, quarterly reports, and annual assessments. District reviews IHIP. Extensive record-keeping. Compulsory ages are 6-16 (6-17 in NYC).
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New York homeschooling FAQ
Does New York require homeschool notification?
Submit letter of intent by July 1 (or 14 days after starting). Submit Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP) within 30 days of district response.
How many instructional days or hours does New York require?
New York requires at least 180 instructional days per year.
Is standardized testing required for homeschoolers in New York?
Annual assessment: standardized test in grades 4, 6, 8, and every year in 9-12 (above 33rd percentile). Alternative evaluation in non-testing years.
What subjects are required for homeschooling in New York?
New York requires instruction in: Arithmetic, Reading, Spelling, Writing, English, Geography, U.S. History, Science, Health, Music, Visual Arts, Physical Education, Patriotism, Citizenship, Highway Safety, Fire Safety, Substance Abuse Prevention.
Does New York require homeschoolers to keep a portfolio or records?
Submit quarterly reports and annual assessment to school district. Quarterly reports include hours, material covered, and grade or narrative evaluation.
Source: https://hslda.org/post/how-to-comply-with-new-yorks-homeschool-law
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with your state's department of education.
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