No state absolutely requires a bachelor's degree to homeschool. Most states (40 of 50) have no educational requirements for parents, though a few include degree options within their qualification frameworks.
What is Bachelor's Degree Requirement?
The bachelor's degree requirement refers to educational qualification provisions that exist in a small number of state homeschool laws. While no state makes a bachelor's degree an absolute requirement for all homeschooling situations, a few states include it as one pathway to qualification. North Dakota, for example, requires parents to have either a bachelor's degree or teaching certificate—though this can be waived for religious objections. The vast majority of states, however, allow any parent to homeschool regardless of their educational background, reflecting the principle that parents are inherently qualified to direct their children's education.
Key Takeaways
- 40 states have no educational requirements whatsoever for homeschool parents
- 10 states require some qualification, usually a high school diploma or GED
- North Dakota's bachelor's degree requirement can be waived for religious objections
- Umbrella schools and teacher supervision provide alternatives in stricter states
States with Educational Requirements
Ten states require some form of parental educational qualification. Georgia, New Mexico, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina require a high school diploma or GED with no exceptions. Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington have similar requirements but allow superintendent discretion for waivers. North Dakota requires a bachelor's degree or teaching certificate, waivable for religious objections. Tennessee requires educational qualifications specifically for high school instruction. California, Kansas, and New York require parents to be "competent" or "capable" but provide no specific standards, leaving determination to parents without state oversight.
Alternatives for Parents Without Degrees
Parents who don't meet their state's educational requirements have several options. Umbrella schools (also called cover schools) legally enroll students as private school students while parents teach at home, satisfying compulsory attendance laws without requiring parent qualifications. Some states allow supervised homeschooling under a certified teacher's guidance. Minnesota offers teacher competency exams as an alternative to degree requirements. Religious exemptions exist in states like North Dakota. Online curricula with teacher support can also help families navigate qualification concerns while ensuring quality instruction.
What Umbrella Schools Provide
What Umbrella Schools Provide
- Legal enrollment as private school students
- Record keeping and transcript management
- Report cards and diploma issuance
- Enrollment verification for activities and sports
- Community access through co-ops and field trips
The Bottom Line
Your educational background matters far less than your commitment to your child's education. With 40 states requiring no qualifications and multiple alternatives available in stricter states, homeschooling remains accessible to virtually all families. If you're in a state with requirements, research umbrella schools or supervision options before assuming you can't homeschool. Many families without college degrees successfully educate their children using quality curricula and support networks. The legal landscape strongly favors parental rights in education—your dedication and willingness to learn alongside your child are the real requirements.
