Utah Homeschooling Laws and Resources

Homeschooling in Utah Overview 

Notice of Intent Required: Yes

1 Option for Homeschooling: At Home Education

Subject or Curriculum Requirements: No

Attendance Age Requirements: 6-18

Record-Keeping Requirements: No

Assessments or Evaluations Required: No

Proof of Immunization Required: No

How to Start Homeschooling in Utah

If you’re considering homeschooling in Utah, you’re in luck–there are very few requirements to begin homeschooling. The state is one of the most homeschool friendly in the country and boasts a welcoming environment that supports home educators.

The most important step you’ll take is creating and submitting your Notice of Intent (NOI) to homeschool to your local school district. 

TIP: If your child is currently enrolled in public school, submitting your NOI to the school district will also cover their withdrawal from school.

Intent to Homeschool Affidavit in Utah

Parents wishing to homeschool in Utah must submit an affidavit expressing their intent to homeschool. This document needs to be filed with your local school district. 

Once this document is filed, the child listed on the affidavit is officially withdrawn from public school and exempt from Utah’s attendance laws.

TIP: There is not a specific form you are required to use, but the Utah State Board of Education (USBOE) has created an example document for you to use. 

Back to Top

Back to Top

Qualifications to Homeschool in Utah

Utah only has one qualification for home educators–they must be the parent or legal guardian of the homeschooled child. 

Public School Access for Homeschoolers

Homeschoolers in Utah have great access to participate in extracurriculars, courses, and sports through the public school system. Homeschoolers also have the option to dual enroll in public school and homeschool. 

To set this up, you can reach out to your public school district to get an understanding of their specific processes. 

Back to Top

Back to Top

Legal Requirements to Homeschool in Utah

The path to homeschooling in Utah is easy and flexible. The state doesn’t mandate records for attendance or curriculum, assessments are not required, and parents or guardians can teach their children without further credentials. Once you’ve filed your affidavit to the school district, you can start homeschooling. You must educate your child from the ages of 6–18.

Utah Homeschool Subject Requirements

Utah homeschooling parents are responsible for choosing what to teach their children and how to present the material. The state does not mandate home educators to teach any specific curriculum or academic subjects.. 

TIP: If you know what subjects you will be teaching and want to receive help with textbooks, you can reach out to the local public school and borrow public school textbooks at no cost. 

Back to Top

Back to Top

Utah Homeschool Attendance Requirements  

Utah does not require any attendance tracking or requirements for homeschoolers. However, it’s a good idea to keep records of instruction time and subjects taught for possible future needs, such as enrolling in public school or for post-high school plans.

Utah Homeschool Assessments and Evaluations 

Homeschoolers in Utah are not required to participate in any standardized testing or assessments. Home educators are welcome to coordinate and pay for a private test if they’re interested in gauging the academic proficiency of their homeschooler. 

Additionally, your local school can allow your homeschooled child to participate in standardized testing through the school. Keep in mind this is at the school’s discretion.

TIP: If you’re interested in testing through your local school, contact their administration to confirm availability and their process to participate.

Back to Top

Back to Top

Required Immunizations for Homeschoolers in Utah

If you’re homeschooling in Utah, your child is not required to be immunized. If you choose to immunize your child, you’ll want to add these documents to your homeschool records. 

Resources for Homeschool Families in Utah

In Utah, homeschooling families frequently seek ways to enrich their children’s education, foster socialization, and find support in their homeschooling journey. 

One effective approach is participating in homeschool groups, co-ops, or larger associations. 

Such relationships can help families create a fulfilling and enjoyable homeschooling experience for their children.

Back to Top

Back to Top

Homeschool Groups and Co-ops in Utah

In Utah, homeschool families can reap many rewards by creating or joining a homeschool group or co-op. These connections can foster a sense of community and enable children to form friendships with other homeschoolers. 

Homeschool groups frequently organize activities, including field trips or physical education, that enrich the educational experience. 

TIP: As a homeschooling parent, you can connect with seasoned homeschoolers through in-person meetings or online support groups.

Homeschool co-ops are another excellent option, enabling parents with diverse talents to share teaching responsibilities. Children can benefit from exposure to a variety of teaching styles and the opportunity to learn alongside other homeschoolers.

We recommend starting your search online if you want to find a group or co-op near you. Here are some popular groups in Utah.

Salt Lake County Homeschool Group

Homeschool Support Group (UT)

Utah Homeschoolers

Utah Homeschoolers Network

Utah Unschoolers

Utah Secular Homeschool Crew

Homeschool Organizations and Associations

Utah homeschooling families can access a wealth of resources and support by connecting with homeschool organizations and associations. These groups provide many advantages, such as access to events, legal assistance, information, and advocacy efforts.

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

You can connect with Utah Home Education Association (UHEA), a 35-year-old organization that is fully volunteer operated. Their mission is to maintain and improve the rights of all Utah parents to homeschool. 

Back to Top

Back to Top

Sports Opportunities for Homeschoolers in Utah

Homeschoolers in Utah can access public school sports and participate on local school teams. If your homeschooler is interested in playing for the local school, reach out to the school to learn when tryouts are and what sports are available.

If playing for the public school doesn’t fit within your homeschool plans, there are many resources available to get your homeschooler involved in athletics. Here are some area favorites.

Utah Homeschool Field Trips 

Homeschooling in Utah offers a great opportunity to take advantage of the state’s many unique field trip options. Here are five field trip ideas to get you started:  

Natural History Museum of Utah: This museum has a vast collection of fossils, minerals, and artifacts, making it a perfect educational destination for kids interested in science, history, and anthropology.

Red Butte Garden: This 100-acre botanical garden offers a fantastic opportunity to explore nature while learning about plants, wildlife, and conservation.

Utah State Capitol: The Utah State Capitol is a great place to learn about the history and workings of the Utah government. Homeschoolers can tour the building and observe the legislative process in action.

Hill Aerospace Museum: This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of aviation and learn about the military’s role in aerospace technology.

Thanksgiving Point: This nonprofit organization provides educational experiences in horticulture, agriculture, and the arts. Homeschoolers can visit the Museum of Natural Curiosity, the Farm Country, and the Ashton Gardens to learn about everything from animal husbandry to plant biology and more.

In addition to these outings, Utah has many hiking trails, lakes, and geologic features to explore in the great outdoors. So, pack a lunch, fill up the tank, and enjoy some hands-on learning. 

Back to Top

Back to Top

Special Education Homeschoolers

Utah does not have a specific provision or law that guarantees homeschooling students with special needs access to public funds designated for special education services.

This means that families who are homeschooling will need to reach out to the local school districts themselves to see if they can receive any special education support for their child. However, keep in mind that local school districts are not required to provide any support.

Back to Top

Utah Homeschool FAQ

How much does it cost to homeschool in Utah?

Homeschooling will cost various amounts depending on the materials and curriculum you buy and the activities you participate in. Many families save money homeschooling by utilizing their public library system and borrowing textbooks from the school district.

Is Utah homeschool friendly? 

Utah is considered one of the most homeschool-friendly states in the nation. The state supports the rights of families to choose educational paths for their children, there’s a strong homeschool community, and school districts provide access to resources.

How do Utah homeschoolers get a diploma?  

Home educators in Utah have the honor of graduating their homeschoolers from high school. Parents or guardians will need to create a framework for what their  homeschooler must complete in order to meet their homeschool graduation requirements. Once these requirements are met, you can graduate your child.

TIP: Consider what prerequisites will be in place for your child’s post-high school plans and curate a graduation path that meets those requirements. 

Utah homeschoolers are not eligible to get a diploma through public schools. Many homeschoolers in Utah choose to earn their GED instead of a public school-issued diploma.

Is unschooling legal in Utah?

Yes! Unschooling is a form of homeschooling where children lead the direction of instruction. In Utah, parents have the right to educate their children in whichever way best fits their family’s needs. 

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

Utah makes it easy to enroll in public school, and you can enroll a student in the local public school district at any time. Each school district has different requirements for its enrollment process. 

TIP: Homeschoolers will want to have good records to show previous coursework and proficiency, as the school will need to determine what grade level to enroll each child.