Homeschooling in Louisiana
A practical starting point for Louisiana families: what to file, what to track, and what state funding (if any) you can use.
At a glance
Apply annually with BESE. Submit a satisfactory evaluation or standardized test.
LA GATOR Scholarship — phasing. Approx. ~$5,000–$7,000 per student.
In-depth guides
Getting started in Louisiana
A high-level checklist tailored to Louisiana’s rules. Specifics like form numbers and deadlines live in the in-depth state laws guide above.
- 1
Understand Louisiana's homeschool requirements
All homeschool families in Louisiana follow the same legal pathway. Apply annually with BESE. Submit a satisfactory evaluation or standardized test. There is no separate umbrella-school or charter option.
- 2
Apply annually with BESE
Submit an annual homeschool application to the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE).
- 3
Submit annual evaluation
Provide a satisfactory standardized test or evaluation each year by the state deadline.
- 4
Choose curriculum and plan your year
Choose curriculum that fits your child's grade level and any required subjects, then sketch a year-long plan you can adjust as you go.
- 5
Check eligibility for LA GATOR Scholarship
Louisiana offers a limited or income-targeted program. Review the program's eligibility rules and award timing before counting on the funds for your school year.
Frequently asked
Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Louisiana?
Yes. You'll file a notice of intent annually and maintain the records the state expects (attendance, portfolio, or progress reports depending on the state).
Does Louisiana require homeschool standardized testing?
Periodic standardized testing or an evaluator-written narrative is typically required. Check the state summary above for the exact cadence.
Can homeschool families in Louisiana access ESA or scholarship funding?
Louisiana offers LA GATOR Scholarship (Phasing). Phased rollout: students switching from public school, foster, low-income; expanding annually.
How do I withdraw my child from public school in Louisiana?
Send a written withdrawal letter to the school's principal or registrar. Keep a dated copy. Once you have filed any state-required notice, your child is considered a homeschooler and the public school no longer needs to mark them absent.
Related states
Other states with similar regulation and a comparable funding posture.
Numa keeps Louisiana compliance on autopilot.
- Pre-filled forms for your state's notice and reporting
- Attendance, portfolio, and assessment tracking by grade
- Curriculum planning that matches state requirements