Pennsylvania Homeschool Funding Options (2026)

Pennsylvania is one of the most heavily regulated homeschool states in the nation. You'll file an affidavit with your superintendent, maintain a detailed portfolio, test in multiple grades, and have your educational program reviewed annually by a certified evaluator.

What you won't receive is any state funding to support your efforts. Pennsylvania asks more of homeschool families than almost any other state while offering nothing financially in return. This guide covers what funding alternatives exist and how to navigate Pennsylvania's demanding compliance requirements.

What Funding Is Available for Pennsylvania Homeschoolers?

Pennsylvania provides no state funding for homeschool families. No ESA program exists, no vouchers are available, and there are no tax credits for educational expenses.

The state's powerful teachers' unions and mixed political environment have prevented school choice legislation from advancing. Pennsylvania has considered ESA bills in recent sessions without success—the political landscape remains challenging.

This creates a frustrating dynamic: Pennsylvania demands more compliance than most states while providing less support than any.

Federal Funding Options

Without state programs, Pennsylvania families rely entirely on federal tax-advantaged accounts:

• Coverdell ESA — Save up to $2,000 per year per child. Growth and qualified withdrawals are tax-free. Covers curriculum, tutoring, testing fees, computers, and supplies.^[1]
• 529 Plan — Pennsylvania's PA 529 plans offer state tax deductions for contributions. Federal law allows $10,000 annually for K-12 tuition, with limited homeschool applicability.
• PA 529 Tax Deduction — Pennsylvania residents can deduct contributions up to $17,000 per beneficiary per year from state income tax. One of the more generous state 529 deductions.

Understanding Pennsylvania's Requirements

Pennsylvania's homeschool requirements are extensive. Understanding them helps you budget both time and money:

Initial filing: - Submit an affidavit to your superintendent before August 1 - Include objectives for each required subject - Provide proof of immunizations or exemption

Required subjects (All grades): Math, English (reading, writing, spelling), science, geography, history (US and PA), civics, safety, health, PE, art, and music

High school additions: World history, biology, chemistry, English literature, trigonometry, and others

Testing requirements: - Standardized testing in grades 3, 5, and 8 - Results kept on file (not submitted to district) - Must use a nationally normed test

The Evaluator Requirement

Pennsylvania requires an annual evaluation by a certified evaluator—one of the most burdensome requirements nationally.

Who can evaluate: - Licensed psychologist - PA-certified teacher with 2+ years experience - Superintendent or their designee

What evaluators review: - Your portfolio of work samples - Log of educational activities (minimum 180 days, 900 hours elementary/990 hours secondary) - Standardized test results (grades 3, 5, 8) - Progress toward objectives

The evaluator's role: They must certify that "appropriate education is occurring." This is a professional judgment based on your documentation.

Finding evaluators: Local homeschool organizations maintain lists of evaluator-friendly certified teachers. Fees typically range from $50-$150 annually. Build this cost into your homeschool budget.

Pennsylvania Homeschool Funding at a Glance

Public School Access

Pennsylvania provides meaningful public school access for homeschoolers:

Part-time enrollment: Pennsylvania law guarantees homeschoolers access to public school courses. You can enroll your child in individual classes—valuable for specialized subjects or social opportunities.

Sports and extracurriculars: Pennsylvania guarantees homeschool access to public school athletics and extracurricular activities. Your child must meet the same eligibility requirements as enrolled students.

Dual enrollment: Pennsylvania community colleges and some universities offer dual enrollment to homeschool students, often at reduced tuition rates.

This access to public resources partially offsets the lack of direct funding.

Community Resources

Pennsylvania has one of the most active homeschool communities in the nation—largely because families need support navigating the regulations:

- Pennsylvania Homeschoolers — Major statewide organization offering evaluations, co-ops, and diploma services - Christian Homeschool Association of Pennsylvania (CHAP) — Large faith-based network with regional chapters - HSLDA Pennsylvania — Legal support and legislative monitoring - Regional co-ops — Active throughout the state for shared instruction

These organizations are particularly valuable for finding experienced evaluators and understanding how different superintendents interpret the law.

Legislative Outlook

School choice legislation has been proposed in Pennsylvania repeatedly but hasn't passed. ESA bills have advanced in recent sessions before stalling.

Pennsylvania's divided government—often with different parties controlling the House, Senate, and governor's office—makes comprehensive reform difficult. Teacher union influence remains strong in both parties.

The political environment could shift, but families should plan on current requirements continuing. Budget for evaluator fees and testing costs as ongoing expenses.

The Bottom Line

Pennsylvania asks more of homeschool families than almost any state while offering nothing financially. You'll maintain portfolios, log hours, test in specific grades, and pay for annual evaluations—all on your own budget.

Federal Coverdell ESAs and Pennsylvania's generous 529 tax deduction provide your primary financial tools. The state's guaranteed access to public school courses, sports, and dual enrollment offers some practical benefit.

The silver lining: Pennsylvania's homeschool community is strong precisely because families need support. Experienced homeschoolers have developed efficient systems for meeting the state's requirements. Connecting with established groups early can smooth your path considerably.