Homeschooling is a recognized and accessible option for families across Alabama. With several pathways to choose from, parents have the freedom to shape their child’s learning while meeting state requirements. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, specialized learning, or a more personalized path, Alabama offers the tools to make it happen.
Families can choose from different enrollment options, navigate state-specific requirements, and explore educational resources that support learning at home. Alabama’s approach makes it possible to create an educational experience that fits both your goals and your learner’s needs.
Homeschooling options in Alabama
Alabama’s homeschool laws give families the flexibility to choose from three pathways. While each option has different rules and responsibilities, they all make it possible to meet state requirements while learning at home. Understanding how each option works is the first step toward making an informed choice.
Church school
Enrolling in a church school is one of the most popular ways to homeschool in Alabama. Church organizations operate these schools and offer K-12 programs, including the option to learn entirely at home. Families who choose this path teach their children at home while following the oversight and policies set by the church school.
Private school
Families can also homeschool by enrolling their child in a private school program. This can be done through an existing private school that supports home-based learning or by setting up a private school at home. This option requires families to follow specific reporting and recordkeeping rules and meet certain program guidelines, such as providing physical education and keeping immunization records.
Home-based private tutor
Another option is hiring a certified Alabama teacher to provide home instruction. This option has stricter rules, including required instructional hours and detailed recordkeeping. While less common than other pathways, it can be a good fit for families who prefer professional instruction in a home setting.
Requirements for homeschooling in Alabama
Once you’ve chosen your preferred homeschooling path, there are a few more responsibilities to keep in mind. Some of these steps have already been introduced, but they’re worth revisiting here to give you a clearer picture of what’s expected throughout the school year.
Enrollment paperwork
In addition to submitting the required enrollment forms or notifications when you first enroll, whether through a church school, private school, or private tutor, you may need to provide follow-up reports or updates throughout the year.
For example, private schools must report student updates if there are changes in enrollment or attendance. Tutors must submit a proposed schedule and keep local officials informed as required by state rules.
Attendance and instruction expectations
Daily attendance tracking is part of every homeschooling option in Alabama. While church and private schools may set their schedules, private tutors must follow specific state rules, including teaching for at least three hours a day, 140 days a year, during regular school hours.
Be sure to check with your church or private school for any additional attendance or instruction policies they expect you to follow.
Recordkeeping responsibilities
Besides attendance, it’s a good idea to keep additional records like lesson plans, grades, and samples of your learner’s work. The state doesn’t always require this, but having a well-documented portfolio can be helpful for future transitions, college applications, or re-enrollment in public school.
Testing and assessments
Alabama does not require homeschoolers to take state-mandated tests. However, some church or private schools may recommend or require assessments as part of their program. Many families also choose optional testing on their own to track academic progress and set future learning goals.
How to get started
Once you’ve decided how you’ll homeschool, the next step is setting things in motion. From paperwork to planning your daily routine, getting started is simpler than it might seem when you break it down into small steps.
Here’s a quick checklist based on the option you choose:
If you’re enrolling in a church school:
- Find and enroll in a church school that supports homeschooling.
- File a church school enrollment form with your local school superintendent.
- Keep a daily attendance record.
- Follow any policies set by the church school, such as required subjects or teacher qualifications.
If you’re enrolling in a private school:
- Join an existing private school that offers home-based learning.
- Report student enrollment to your local superintendent within five days of the public school year starting.
- Keep daily attendance records.
- Collect and keep proof of immunization (or a valid exemption).
- Include physical education as part of your learning program.
If you’re using a private tutor:
- Hire an Alabama-certified teacher as your child’s tutor.
- Make sure instruction happens in English, covers required subjects, and meets the time requirements (at least three hours a day for 140 days per year).
- Submit your tutor’s student list and schedule to your local superintendent.
- Keep records of attendance and hours of instruction as required by the state.
Need a little more guidance before you dive in? Take a look at our simple guide to starting homeschooling in 10 steps—it’s a great next step if you’re ready to learn more.
Homeschool with Outschool
One of the best parts of homeschooling is the ability to mix and match resources to fit your learner’s needs. Outschool makes that easier by offering a wide range of online classes in core academics, creative subjects, and life skills. You can create a complete learning plan or use Outschool to fill in gaps wherever you need extra support.
Homeschooling benefits you can enjoy with Outschool include:
- Live classes that encourage interaction and participation
- Flexible scheduling that works with your family’s routine
- A wide range of subjects, from math and science to art and music
- Opportunities to build social connections with peers
- Easy access to course summaries and completion records for your portfolio
With so many flexible options, Outschool makes it easier to build a homeschool experience that grows with your learner’s interests and educational goals.
Find support through homeschool communities in Alabama
While homeschooling puts you in charge of your child’s learning, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Alabama families have plenty of ways to connect with other homeschoolers, both in their local area and across the state, for advice, resources, and encouragement.
Statewide organizations
These groups provide information, events, and resources for families all across Alabama:
Local groups and co-ops
Finding a nearby group can open up opportunities for field trips, meetups, group classes, and social activities:
- Homeschool-Life – A searchable directory of regional homeschool groups and co-ops throughout the state
- COMPASS Christian Home Educators – A nonprofit homeschool group serving northeast Alabama with field trips, co-ops, clubs, park days, curriculum sales, and an annual homeschool expo.
- Elmore County Homeschool Organization (ECHO) – A free support group based in Deatsville, open to all families. Offers field trips, social events, and twice-monthly meetups during the school year.
Joining a homeschool group helps your family stay connected, discover new resources, and enjoy learning with others.
Frequently asked questions
Homeschooling in Alabama can feel like a big responsibility, but once you understand the rules, it becomes much easier to manage. Here are answers to some of the most common questions families ask when getting started.
What are the options for homeschooling in Alabama?
Alabama offers three homeschooling pathways: enrolling in a church school, a private school, or hiring a certified private tutor. Each option has its own rules, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your family.
How do homeschoolers in Alabama graduate or get diplomas?
Homeschooling families get to decide when their learner has completed their education. Parents can issue their own diplomas since the state doesn’t have formal graduation requirements for homeschoolers. If your learner plans to apply for college or certain jobs later on, it’s a good idea to follow Alabama’s public school course guidelines.
Do I need to notify the state or local school district when I start homeschooling?
Yes. Depending on the option you choose, you may need to submit enrollment forms to your local superintendent. For example, if you enroll in a church school, you’ll need to file a church school enrollment form.
Are there specific subjects I must teach?
While the state doesn’t list required homeschool subjects, covering core areas like math, language arts, science, and social studies is a smart way to keep your learner on track for future opportunities.
What is the compulsory school age in Alabama?
Alabama requires kids to be in school from age 6 to 17. If your child is 6, you can let your local school board know in writing if you plan to wait until they turn 7 to start.
Is standardized testing required for homeschoolers?
No. Alabama doesn’t require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. However, your church school or private school might offer or require assessments as part of their program.
Does Alabama offer an ESA program for homeschoolers?
Yes. Starting in 2025, Alabama’s CHOOSE Act will provide up to $2,000 per homeschooled student (capped at $4,000 per family) for education expenses like curriculum, materials, and tutoring. Funding is limited and awarded based on priority groups, including students with special needs, military families, and those with income eligibility.
Can I use Alabama ESA funds with Outschool?
Not yet—but we’re working on it. Right now, Outschool accepts ESA funds through ClassWallet for families in in a variety of ESA states.. If you're in Alabama, you can join our waitlist, and we’ll let you know as soon as we're approved to accept funds from the CHOOSE Act program.
Your Alabama homeschooling journey starts here
Your path to homeschooling in Alabama is as unique as your family. The state's flexible approach through church schools, private schools, or private tutors lets you create learning experiences that reflect your values and your child's interests.
With flexible learning tools like Outschool and new funding opportunities through the CHOOSE Act, Alabama families have more support than ever before. Be sure to stay updated with state resources to keep up with any changes or new programs that could benefit your homeschool journey.
More resources for Alabama homeschoolers
Need extra support? Our guide to Alabama’s CHOOSE Act program offers supportive insights to help families understand how it can benefit their homeschool journey.
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