Homeschooling in Oregon: Laws & Requirements (2026)

Oregon takes an interesting approach to homeschool regulation: test periodically, but don't dictate what you teach. There's no state curriculum, no required subjects, no parent qualifications—just a one-time notification and standardized testing at four grade levels.

This hands-off philosophy means Oregon families have tremendous freedom in their educational approach. Whether you're drawn to classical education, unschooling, or something in between, the state doesn't interfere with your methods. The testing requirement exists primarily to identify students who might need additional support, not to police homeschool families. Once you understand the notification process and testing timeline, compliance becomes straightforward.

Oregon Homeschool Requirements at a Glance

Understanding Oregon's Homeschool Philosophy

Oregon stands out among moderate-regulation states because it focuses on outcomes rather than inputs. The state doesn't care what curriculum you use, how many hours you teach, or whether you follow a traditional school calendar. Instead, it asks one question: can your child demonstrate basic academic progress at four testing checkpoints?

This approach gives Oregon homeschoolers unusual freedom. You can structure your days around a child's natural learning rhythms, pursue interest-led education, or follow a rigorous classical curriculum—the state treats all approaches equally. The only consistent requirement is that notification and testing, when due, are handled properly.

The Role of Education Service Districts

Oregon's 19 regional Education Service Districts (ESDs) handle homeschool administration rather than individual school districts^[2]. Your local ESD receives your notification, maintains tester registries, and can request test scores when required.

Each ESD has its own notification portal and approved tester list. Before filing paperwork, identify which ESD serves your county—this determines where you'll send your notification and where you'll find qualified testers. The Oregon Department of Education website maintains links to all regional ESD homeschool pages.

One significant benefit of this system: you file once with your ESD and you're done. Unlike states requiring annual paperwork, Oregon's notification is a one-time requirement unless you move to a different ESD's territory.

How to Start Homeschooling in Oregon

Testing Requirements Explained

Oregon requires standardized testing in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10 using a nationally-normed achievement test^[3]. The test must be administered by a qualified neutral party—not a family member—and scores are due by August 15 of the testing year.

Here's what catches some families off guard: Oregon has a 15th percentile floor^[3]. If your child scores below the 15th percentile, you'll need to re-test within one year. If scores continue to decline between testing periods, the ESD can require supervision by a certified teacher.

That said, the 15th percentile is a low bar designed to identify significant struggles, not academic excellence. Most homeschooled students clear this threshold without difficulty. The requirement exists to provide a safety net, not to create obstacles for families following reasonable educational programs.

Testing Schedule and Deadlines

Finding a Qualified Tester

Oregon's "qualified tester" requirement trips up some families. The tester must be neutral—meaning no blood or marriage relationship to your child—and must meet specific credential requirements outlined in Oregon Administrative Rules^[3].

Your ESD maintains a registry of approved testers in your region. These typically include retired teachers, testing services, and credentialed educators who offer homeschool testing. Fees vary by tester and location, generally ranging from $50 to $150 per student.

Book early. Spring testing season (March through May) sees high demand, and popular testers fill their schedules quickly. Many families test in April or May to receive scores well before the August 15 deadline.

Record-Keeping in Oregon

Oregon doesn't mandate specific record-keeping for homeschoolers. There's no attendance log requirement, no portfolio submission, and no annual reporting beyond the testing grades.

That said, maintaining records protects you. Keep copies of your ESD notification confirmation, test scores, curriculum materials, and work samples. These become invaluable if you ever transfer to public school, move to another state, or apply to colleges.

For homeschool athletes participating in Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) interscholastic sports, documentation requirements are stricter—you'll need annual testing or portfolio evidence by August 15^[4].

Recommended Records to Maintain

Sports and Extracurricular Access

Oregon allows homeschoolers to participate in public school interscholastic sports under OSAA guidelines^[4]. To be eligible, homeschooled students must provide annual testing results or a portfolio demonstrating educational progress by August 15.

Beyond public school sports, Oregon has an active homeschool athletics community. Organizations like Oregon Christian Home Education Association Network (OCEAN) coordinate homeschool sports leagues, and many communities offer co-op physical education programs.

Homeschoolers can also access some public school courses and services depending on local district policies. Contact your local school district to inquire about part-time enrollment options for specific classes or extracurricular activities.

High School, Graduation & Beyond

Oregon homeschool parents issue their own diplomas. There's no state-issued homeschool diploma or GED requirement—you create and award the credential yourself based on your graduation standards.

For college-bound students, focus on creating comprehensive transcripts that document courses, grades, and credits. Oregon's public universities, including University of Oregon and Oregon State University, have established homeschool admission procedures and actively recruit homeschooled students.

Community college dual enrollment is another strong option. Oregon's 17 community colleges welcome homeschoolers, and credits transfer to state universities. This pathway can reduce college costs while providing official transcripts for courses completed during high school.

Special Circumstances

Students with Disabilities: Homeschooled students with disabilities may be eligible for evaluation services through your local school district. However, IEP services typically require some level of public school enrollment. Contact your district's special education department to understand available options.

Mid-Year Withdrawal: Oregon allows withdrawal from public school at any point. Submit written notice, file your ESD notification within 10 days of starting homeschool instruction, and request copies of your child's records.

Moving to Oregon: If relocating from another state, file your ESD notification within 30 days of establishing residency^[2]. Your previous state's records don't transfer automatic compliance—you'll need to meet Oregon's testing requirements starting from your Oregon enrollment date.

The Bottom Line

Oregon offers homeschool families a rare combination: genuine curriculum freedom with manageable oversight. File your one-time notification, handle testing at four grade levels, and otherwise teach as you see fit. No required subjects, no minimum hours, no annual paperwork.

The 15th percentile testing threshold and 18-month grace period for new homeschoolers demonstrate Oregon's intent to support families rather than create barriers. Most homeschoolers never encounter complications—they file notification, test when required, and focus on education.

Start by identifying your ESD, submitting notification, and locating a qualified tester for your child's next testing grade. From there, Oregon largely stays out of your way.