North Dakota Homeschooling Laws and Resources

Homeschooling in North Dakota Overview 

Notice of Intent Required: Yes

2 Options for Homeschooling: Home Education, Homeschool as a Private School

Subject or Curriculum Requirements: Yes

Attendance Age Requirements: 7-16

Record-Keeping Requirements: Yes

Assessments or Evaluations Required: Yes

Proof of Immunization Required: Yes

How to Start Homeschooling in North Dakota

North Dakota welcomes families who opt to homeschool, offering a supportive atmosphere that simplifies the process. North Dakota also boasts a thriving homeschooling community, with numerous homeschool groups and systems that provide exceptional support.

The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) has established mandatory procedures to start your homeschooling journey, which are explained below.

There are two options to homeschool in North Dakota, each with its own requirements. Both options require you to submit an annual Notice of Intent to homeschool to your school district. 

Notice of Intent for Homeschooling in North Dakota

In North Dakota, you will need to submit an annual notice of intent (NOI) to the school district. The state created this helpful template to guide you in submitting your NOI.

Beyond standard contact information for you and your child, your NOI must include proof of your education level.

TIP: Your initial NOI must be submitted 14 days before you begin your homeschool program.

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Qualifications to Homeschool in North Dakota

Home educators must have either a GED or high school diploma to qualify as homeschool teachers in North Dakota. You’ll submit proof of this when you file your NOI. 

If you don’t have this qualification, the state has created a pathway so all parents and guardians can homeschool their children. If you don’t have your GED or high school diploma, you’ll be assigned a licensed teacher to monitor your homeschool.

Homeschool Monitoring

For those who want to homeschool but don’t have a diploma or GED, you can stay in compliance with homeschool laws by requesting a monitor in lieu of education documentation in your NOI.

The school district is responsible for assigning and compensating the homeschool monitor. Some homeschoolers choose to find their own monitor and employ them at their own expense.

When you have a homeschool monitor, they must:

1. Be licensed to teach in North Dakota.
2. Report progress to the school district twice each school year.
3. Spend 1 hour each week in contact with the child and child’s parent(s).

Parents or guardians who utilize a monitor to comply with homeschool laws can expect to have a monitor for two school years.

Options for Homeschooling in North Dakota

You have two options to consider when homeschooling in North Dakota. You can homeschool under the home education law or as a private school. We’ll help you understand the qualifications for both. 

Home Education Law

If you decide to homeschool in North Dakota, you’ll most likely operate under this law rather than registering as a private school. Here’s what you will need to do to be in compliance with local homeschool requirements: 

1. To qualify as a home educator, you must have a high school diploma or GED. If you don’t have this qualification, you can still homeschool but must have a certified teacher monitor your first two years of homeschooling.
2. You must file a Notice of Intent to homeschool (NOI) every year. 
3. You must teach your child 175 days each year and four hours each day.
4. Homeschoolers must receive instruction in the same subjects as their public school peers.
5. Use good recordkeeping to track academic progress and attendance.
6. Have your homeschoolers participate in standardized testing in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10.

Homeschooling as a Private School

If you’re considering homeschooling and have a North Dakota teaching license, you can homeschool as a private school. Here are the requirements for this homeschooling option:

1. You must have an active teaching certification in North Dakota.
2. You’ll need to pass a criminal background check.
3. File your NOI annually
4. Plan to teach your child a minimum of 180 days.
5. Teach the same subjects that are required in local public schools.

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Legal Requirements to Homeschool in North Dakota

As a homeschooling parent, knowing what you need to do to comply with the state’s homeschool regulations is important. In North Dakota, you will need to submit your annual NOI, instruct your child for a specific number of days, have your child participate in standardized testing, and teach the same subjects as the public schools. 

North Dakota Homeschool Subject Requirements

Homeschoolers in North Dakota are required to learn the same subjects as their peers at public school. However, there is no required delivery method or specified curriculum you must follow when teaching these subjects.

These are the subjects you’ll need to cover for elementary and middle school: 

• Math
• Language Arts
• Social Studies
• Science
• Physical Education
• Health 

Homeschooled high schoolers must receive instruction in the above subjects, as well as foreign languages, fine arts, or technical education.

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North Dakota Homeschool Attendance Requirements  

Compulsory attendance laws kick in for children between the ages of 7 and 16. Once your child has completed high school graduation requirements, this no longer applies. Attending homeschool fulfills compulsory attendance laws.

Homeschoolers in North Dakota must receive instruction 4 hours per day and a total of 175 days during the school year.

For parents or guardians homeschooling with an active teaching license, 180 instruction days are required.

TIP: Home educators are responsible for documenting instruction time.

North Dakota Homeschool Record-Keeping Requirements 

You are required to keep an annual record of the courses taken when homeschooling in North Dakota. You’ll also keep records of your child’s academic progress assessments, which may include standardized test results. 

If you enroll your child in a public school district, you must provide this record to the superintendent or other administrator upon request.

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North Dakota Homeschool Assessments and Evaluations 

Homeschoolers in North Dakota are required to take standardized tests in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10. 

The state allows homeschoolers to take the test at the public school or will send a licensed teacher to come to the child’s learning environment to administer the test.

Homeschooling families in North Dakota can opt out of standardized testing if they have a philosophical, moral, or religious objection.

Additionally, home educators don’t need to test their children if they are licensed teachers, have a bachelor’s degree, or have passed the Praxis test. 

Required Immunizations for Homeschoolers in North Dakota

As part of your annual NOI, you are required to include immunization records for your homeschooled children. North Dakota allows medical and religious exemptions for immunizations. If you have an exemption for your child, you should include that documentation with your NOI.

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Resources for Homeschool Families in North Dakota

North Dakota homeschooling families often look for ways to enhance their children’s education, promote socialization, and receive support during their homeschooling journey. Joining homeschool groups, co-ops, or larger associations can help. 

By becoming part of these networks, families gain access to a wide range of resources and opportunities to connect with other homeschoolers, share insights, and gain knowledge from each other. Such connections can aid families in creating an enriching homeschooling experience for home educators and their students. Learn more about these groups and organizations, sports opportunities, field trip ideas, and public school access below.

Public School Access for Homeschoolers in North Dakota

North Dakota homeschoolers can participate in courses, activities, and extracurriculars through their local public school. 

When you submit your NOI, you will include which public school your child will attend and which courses or extracurriculars they will join. Your homeschooler has the same access to sports and extracurriculars as their public school peers, which means they will also need to adhere to any grade or health rules the school requires.

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Homeschool Groups and Co-ops in North Dakota

If you’re homeschooling in North Dakota, joining or creating a homeschool group or co-op can be an excellent way to enrich your child’s educational experience and form connections with other families. 

Homeschool groups typically plan group activities such as field trips or physical education, which can make the learning process more engaging. Additionally, home educators can get guidance and support from experienced homeschoolers through in-person meetings or online support groups.

Homeschool co-ops are another fantastic option that helps home educators share teaching responsibilities based on their diverse talents. Co-ops are typically more formal than a group and provide children with exposure to various teaching styles. 

To find a group or co-op in your area, we suggest starting your search online for groups in your area. 

TIP: Connecting with other homeschoolers can create a sense of community and enable children to make new friends.

Homeschool Organizations and Associations

The most formal organization for homeschoolers is a state-wide association. North Dakota homeschooling families can benefit greatly by joining homeschool organizations and associations, which provide many resources and support. These groups offer many advantages, including access to events, legal assistance, information, and advocacy efforts.

Homeschool associations have more structure than informal groups or co-ops and may require a membership fee. However, joining a homeschool association can provide opportunities to connect with other families and access valuable resources that support your child’s education.

For North Dakota families, the only state-wide organization is the North Dakota Home School Association (NDHSA). The NDHSA provides information on homeschool laws, hosts educational events, provides advocacy, and supports all homeschool families.

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Sports Opportunities for Homeschoolers in North Dakota

Your homeschooler has full access to any public school sports. Many school sports teams hold tryouts months before the season begins. If your homeschooler is interested in playing sports for the local school team, it’s a good idea to contact the school for tryout schedules.

If participating in public school sports doesn’t fit within your homeschool goals, there are plenty of athletic opportunities in the community. Many homeschoolers join teams through the local YMCA or community recreation center. Here are other athletic options for homeschoolers in your area.

North Dakota Homeschool Field Trips 

Every homeschooling family loves experiencing hands-on learning through educational field trips. North Dakota has a vast array of culture, nature, and history to experience. So pack a lunch, fill up your tank, and go on a field trip adventure. 

Here are some popular field trip destinations for homeschoolers in North Dakota.

• North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum in Bismarck. The Heritage Center is home to numerous exhibits that showcase the history, culture, and art of North Dakota. The State Museum is also on the premises and has an extensive collection of artifacts and displays showcasing the state’s natural history.

• The Fargo Air Museum in Fargo. This museum houses a collection of historic airplanes, including military and civilian aircraft. Visitors can learn about the history of aviation and explore the museum’s collection of aviation artifacts.

• The Dakota Zoo in Bismarck. This zoo is home to a variety of animals native to the region, including bison, elk, and mountain lions. Visitors can also learn about animal conservation and the zoo’s role in preserving endangered species.

• The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame in Medora. This museum honors the state’s rich cowboy culture and heritage. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the history of rodeo, western art, and the cowboy way of life.

• The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Washburn. This museum tells the story of the famous expedition that explored the western part of the United States. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Native American tribes who lived in the area at the time.

• The National Buffalo Museum in Jamestown. This museum is home to a herd of live buffalo and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history and significance of the buffalo in Native American culture.

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Special Education Homeschoolers

Homeschooling children with special needs has its own requirements in North Dakota. As a parent or guardian, you must follow these steps if you wish to homeschool your special needs child:

1. Submit your annual NOI.
2. Provide the school district with a copy of the child’s diagnosis from their doctor.
3. Develop a service plan (privately or through the school district) and file it with the school district.
4. File progress reports three times each year. The service plan team must prepare the reports. 

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North Dakota Homeschool FAQ

How much does it cost to homeschool in North Dakota?

Homeschooling costs vary in every family and depend on things like your curriculum, supplies, and the number of activities you pay for.

We recommend using your public library system to help minimize the cost of homeschooling. You can borrow books, educational materials, curriculums, and enjoy many library-sponsored activities. 

Is North Dakota homeschool friendly? 

North Dakota is very supportive of homeschoolers. There’s great access to public school classes, extracurriculars, and support systems. The state requires home educators to teach certain subjects but ultimately leaves the freedom and flexibility of teaching in the hands of the home educator. 

How do North Dakota homeschoolers get a diploma?  

Homeschoolers in North Dakota have access to a school-issued diploma. Home educators must keep a record of the completed coursework and proof of proficiency. This will be used to show eligibility to graduate.

We recommend communicating with the local school to ensure all subject areas are met and creating an education plan that leads to a school-issued diploma.

If this graduation method doesn’t fit your homeschool plan, your child can also qualify to earn their GED. 

How do I enroll my child in public school after homeschooling in North Dakota? 

Enrolling in public school in North Dakota is a straightforward process. 

Local public school districts accept enrollments anytime, though each district may have unique enrollment requirements. Homeschooling families should ensure they have comprehensive records of their child’s past coursework, test scores, and academic achievements. The school will use this information to determine the appropriate grade level for enrollment.

Is unschooling legal in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, all homeschoolers are mandated to receive instruction for a certain number of hours in essential academic subjects and participate in regular testing. There are no regulations on how you present the education to your children, which leaves flexibility for unschooling.

However, it’s important for home educators to consider whether they can effectively adhere to the state’s regulations regarding the unschooling format.