Homeschooling in South Dakota: Laws & Requirements (2026)

South Dakota made homeschooling dramatically simpler in 2021. Where families once faced annual enrollment and mandatory standardized testing in grades 2, 4, 8, and 11, the state now requires only a one-time notification and instruction in two subjects: language arts and math.

The 2021 changes (SB 177) put South Dakota among the most homeschool-friendly states in the nation. No curriculum approval, no portfolio reviews, no testing unless you choose it. The state shifted from oversight to trust—a change that's led to significant growth in homeschool families across the prairie.

This guide covers the current simplified requirements, the notification process, and practical considerations for South Dakota families considering or already engaged in home education.

South Dakota Homeschool Requirements at a Glance

Understanding South Dakota's 2021 Law Changes

Senate Bill 177, signed July 1, 2021, fundamentally transformed South Dakota homeschooling. Understanding what changed helps you appreciate how straightforward compliance has become^[2].

Before 2021: - Annual notification to local school district - Standardized testing required in grades 2, 4, 8, and 11 - Local school boards could question or deny requests - Parents had to explain reasons for homeschooling

After 2021: - One-time notification to SD Department of Education - No testing requirements whatsoever - No school board involvement or approval needed - No obligation to disclose reasons for homeschooling

What this means practically: File once, homeschool freely. South Dakota removed the bureaucratic friction that previously complicated the process. Over 11,500 students were in alternative instruction programs during 2024-25, a growth of 4,075 students since the law changed^[3].

Required Subjects

South Dakota requires instruction in just two subject areas—the most minimal curriculum requirement of any state^[1]:

Required: - Language arts (reading, writing, spelling, grammar) - Mathematics

Not specified by state: - Science - Social studies/history - Health - Physical education - Foreign language - Arts

Reality check: Most families teach far more than the legal minimum. The requirement establishes a floor, not a ceiling. Comprehensive education typically includes science, history, health, and other subjects regardless of state mandates.

Curriculum freedom: South Dakota doesn't approve, review, or recommend curricula. You select materials and methods that work for your family. This flexibility lets you adapt to your child's learning style and your educational philosophy.

How to Start Homeschooling in South Dakota

Record-Keeping Practices

South Dakota law doesn't specify record-keeping requirements for homeschoolers. No attendance logs, hour tracking, or portfolio submissions are mandated. That said, maintaining records serves your family's interests.

Why keep records anyway: - Supports high school transcripts for college applications - Documents education if returning to public school - Provides evidence of instruction if questions arise - Helps track your child's progress over time

Recommended records: - Attendance (which days instruction occurred) - Curriculum used for each subject - Work samples from throughout the year - Assessment results if you choose to test - Extracurricular activities and achievements

Format is up to you: Spreadsheets, homeschool planners, binders with samples—choose what you'll actually maintain. The best record-keeping system is one you'll use consistently.

Recommended Records to Maintain

Optional Testing

While South Dakota eliminated mandatory testing in 2021, standardized assessments remain available as an option^[2].

Free state testing: The SD DOE offers voluntary free standardized testing (Stanford or Iowa assessments) for grades 4, 8, and 11. Contact your local public school or the state DOE if interested.

Why test voluntarily: - Benchmark your child's progress against grade-level expectations - Identify strengths and areas needing attention - Practice for college entrance exams (SAT, ACT) - Satisfy your own curiosity about academic standing

Private testing options: Many families use services like BJU Press testing, CAT tests, or Iowa assessments through homeschool providers. These provide detailed feedback without state involvement.

No consequences: Whether you test or not, results have no bearing on your legal homeschool status. Testing is purely for your information.

High School, Graduation & Beyond

South Dakota homeschool parents determine graduation requirements and issue diplomas. The state doesn't specify high school credits, course requirements, or graduation standards for home-educated students.

Creating transcripts: For college applications, develop a comprehensive transcript listing courses, credits, grades, and your graduation requirements. Include course descriptions if applying to competitive schools.

South Dakota universities: State schools including USD, SDSU, and others accept homeschool applicants. Requirements typically include transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, and standard application materials. Contact admissions offices for specific guidance.

Dual enrollment: South Dakota technical colleges and universities often allow high schoolers to take courses for credit. This provides college experience and a head start while homeschooling.

Career readiness: South Dakota's economy includes agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Consider how your high school program prepares your student for regional opportunities alongside traditional college paths.

Sports and Extracurricular Access

South Dakota doesn't guarantee homeschooler access to public school sports or activities by state law. Participation is at local district discretion.

Checking with your district: Some South Dakota districts welcome homeschool participation in athletics and extracurriculars. Contact your local school's activities director to inquire about policies and requirements.

Homeschool alternatives: South Dakota's homeschool community offers sports leagues, co-ops, and activities in larger population centers like Sioux Falls and Rapid City. Rural families may face longer drives for these opportunities.

SDHSAA considerations: The South Dakota High School Activities Association sets eligibility rules for member schools. If a district allows participation, homeschoolers typically must meet similar academic and conduct requirements as enrolled students.

Special Considerations

Special needs: Homeschooled students in South Dakota cannot access public school special education services unless enrolled part-time. Families with IEP-eligible children face a choice between services and homeschool freedom. Some opt for part-time enrollment to receive specific therapies while homeschooling other subjects.

Starting mid-year: File your notification and begin. South Dakota doesn't require waiting periods or specific start dates. Many families transition mid-year successfully.

Moving to South Dakota: File your Alternative Instruction Notification with the DOE upon establishing residency. Bring records from your previous state for continuity.

Returning to public school: Students re-enrolling are placed based on age and school assessment. Having organized records facilitates appropriate grade placement.

The Bottom Line

South Dakota has made homeschooling about as simple as any state in the nation. One-time notification, two required subjects, no testing—the framework trusts parents to educate their children without extensive oversight.

The 2021 law changes removed barriers that previously complicated homeschooling. Filing once and homeschooling freely represents a significant shift toward educational freedom. South Dakota families can focus on teaching rather than paperwork.

Your first step: submit your Alternative Instruction Notification to the SD Department of Education. From there, select curriculum that fits your family's needs, and begin the rewarding work of home education on the Great Plains.