Most states have no parent qualification requirements to homeschool. Only 11 states require parents to have a high school diploma or GED, and no state requires a teaching degree or college education.
What are Parent Qualifications for Homeschooling?
Parent qualifications refer to the educational credentials or requirements a parent must meet to legally homeschool their children. This is one of the most common concerns for families considering homeschooling—and one of the biggest misconceptions. The reality: 40 states have absolutely no parent qualification requirements. You don't need a teaching degree, a college education, or any special certification. The remaining states have minimal requirements, typically just a high school diploma or GED.
Key Takeaways
- No state requires a teaching degree or teacher certification to homeschool
- 40 states have zero parent qualification requirements
- Only 11 states require a high school diploma or GED
- Alternative pathways exist in most states with requirements (umbrella schools, supervision options)
States with Requirements
The Teaching Degree Myth
Perhaps the most persistent homeschool myth is that parents need teaching credentials. They don't—not in any state. The requirements that exist are minimal: a high school diploma or GED at most. Many successful homeschool parents have no college education at all. Curriculum guides, online courses, co-ops, and tutoring services mean parents don't need to be experts in every subject. Your job is to facilitate learning, not replicate a classroom teacher's training.
Alternative Pathways
Even in states with diploma requirements, alternatives often exist. Tennessee and Virginia allow homeschooling through umbrella schools that don't require parent credentials. North Dakota permits supervision by a certified teacher. Some states accept religious exemptions. If you're in a state with requirements and don't meet them, research these options before assuming you can't homeschool. HSLDA's state-by-state guide provides detailed information on alternatives in your area.
Testing and Notification (Separate from Qualifications)
Don't confuse parent qualifications with other homeschool requirements. Twenty-four states require annual assessments or progress evaluations—these exist regardless of parent credentials. Many states require notification of intent to homeschool. Some mandate specific subjects. These requirements are separate from whether you personally need a diploma. Understanding the difference helps you focus on what your state actually requires.
The Bottom Line
The qualifications barrier to homeschooling is much lower than most people assume. If you have a high school diploma, you meet the requirements in every state. If you don't, 40 states still allow you to homeschool with no credentials at all. The question isn't whether you're qualified on paper—it's whether you're willing to invest the time and effort in your child's education. That's a question only you can answer.
