Homeschooling in Montana
A practical starting point for Montana families: what to file, what to track, and what state funding (if any) you can use.
At a glance
Notify the county superintendent. Keep attendance and immunization records.
Special Needs Equal Opportunity ESA — special needs. Approx. ~$8,000 per student.
In-depth guides
Getting started in Montana
A high-level checklist tailored to Montana’s rules. Specifics like form numbers and deadlines live in the in-depth state laws guide above.
- 1
Understand Montana's homeschool requirements
All homeschool families in Montana follow the same legal pathway. Notify the county superintendent. Keep attendance and immunization records. There is no separate umbrella-school or charter option.
- 2
Notify your county superintendent
File annual homeschool notification with your county superintendent on the state form.
- 3
Keep attendance and immunization records
Maintain attendance and immunization records on file. Montana does not require state testing.
- 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
Apply for Special Needs Equal Opportunity ESA (if eligible)
Montana's ESA is limited to qualifying students — generally those with a documented disability or specific eligibility criteria. Confirm eligibility before applying.
Frequently asked
Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Montana?
Yes — but the requirement is light. Most families file a one-page notice or affidavit each year with the state or local district.
Does Montana require homeschool standardized testing?
Standardized testing is generally not required at the state level, though some districts or umbrella schools may ask for it.
Can homeschool families in Montana access ESA or scholarship funding?
Montana offers Special Needs Equal Opportunity ESA (Special needs). Students with diagnosed disabilities (IEP or qualifying evaluation).
How do I withdraw my child from public school in Montana?
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 Montana 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