Homeschooling in Illinois: What you need to get started

Illinois gives you the freedom to guide your child’s education in a way that fits your family’s pace, priorities, and learning style. Many parents choose to homeschool to create a more personalized, interest-led experience, and to give their kids the flexibility to thrive.

If you’re considering this path, understanding your options and knowing what’s required can make the process feel much more manageable. This guide breaks down the essentials and next steps, and shows you how platforms like Outschool can support you along the way! 

Illinois homeschool laws and requirements

Homeschooling in Illinois is refreshingly straightforward. The state classifies homeschool programs as private schools, giving parents broad autonomy over how and what their children learn. Parents need to meet only two requirements, and understanding them makes the process that much easier! Public school withdrawal

If your child is currently enrolled in a public school, you’ll need to send a withdrawal letter stating your intent to homeschool. This notifies the school of your educational choice and ensures a smooth transition. While Illinois doesn’t require formal registration for homeschoolers, this step helps keep your records current.

Teach core subjects in English

As a homeschool parent in Illinois, you must provide instruction in the same subjects taught in public schools, but you have the freedom to choose how and when that learning happens. Lessons must be conducted in English and cover:

• Language arts
• Math
• Science
• Social studies
• Fine arts
• Physical development and health

Graduation, assessments, and AP courses

Illinois does not set specific graduation requirements for homeschoolers. As the parent, you define what a completed high school education looks like for your learner. Some families choose to:

• Administer standardized tests like the SAT or ACT (helpful for college applications)
• Create transcripts that include course descriptions, grades, and extracurriculars
• Issue a parent-created high school diploma

The Illinois homeschool law does not mandate standardized tests, homework, or coursework of any kind. Your local public school, district, or the Illinois State Board of Education will not review any assessments you choose to administer. Parents usually choose to have these taken for future college applications or in case they see themselves reenrolling in the public school system again. 

As for AP courses, public schools are not required to provide testing for these subjects. However, some still do make arrangements depending on whether or not they have availability. If you’re planning on AP exams, you must reach out to a public school or AP coordinator to administer the test. 

How Outschool can support your homeschool

Homeschooling families often choose this path because they want learning that fits their child’s unique needs and their own daily rhythm. Outschool brings that flexibility and customization to life with live, small-group classes taught by passionate teachers.

Here’s why so many families choose Outschool:

• Engaging live and self-paced options that fit into any schedule
• A huge range of subjects, from math and science to cooking and art
• Opportunities to interact with like-minded peers
• Easy-to-access lesson details, work samples, and records for your homeschool portfolio

No matter how you homeschool, Outschool helps make learning joyful, meaningful, and manageable.

Steps to start homeschooling in Illinois

Ready to start homeschooling your child in Illinois? You can begin your home education with these straightforward steps that put you in control of your child's learning experience.

Here’s a simple checklist to begin homeschooling in Illinois:

• Send a withdrawal letter to your child’s current school (include child’s name, grade, and start date)
• Decide on your learning goals and subjects for the year
• Choose curriculum materials (books, online classes, projects, etc.)
• Set up a system to track learning and progress
• Join local or online homeschool groups for connection and support

Find support through homeschool communities

Building a support system is one of the most helpful things you can do as a homeschool parent. Whether you want advice, resources, or just friends for your kids, these communities are a great place to start.

Local communities

• Grassroots Homeschoolers: This non-profit organization offers social opportunities, practical information, and learning adventures for all families. Also part of Illinois H.O.U.S.E.

Statewide communities/resources

• Illinois H.O.U.S.E.: An inclusive network of local chapters throughout the state that support homeschooling families of all backgrounds.
• SEA Homeschoolers: Host multiple virtual and in-person conferences a year and have more than 100,000 families part of their Facebook group.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about homeschooling in Illinois

Starting your homeschool journey brings up many questions about practical steps and requirements. These straightforward answers will help you move forward with confidence.

What records do I need to show I'm legally homeschooling in Illinois?

You do not need to hand over any kind of records to the state as a homeschooler. However, for the sake of college applications or re-enrollment in public school, many parents maintain a portfolio of lesson plans, sample work, or state assessments, if taken. 

What steps make transitioning from public school smooth and stress-free?

Write a simple withdrawal letter to your child's school stating your intent to homeschool. Before your child's last day, gather your learning materials and set up a comfortable space at home. Connect with local homeschool groups, they offer valuable support and friendship during this change.

How do homeschooled students prepare for college?

Start building your high school student's transcript early by documenting courses, projects, and achievements. Include detailed course descriptions, reading lists, and extracurricular activities. Many colleges actively seek homeschool graduates, consider taking the SAT or ACT to complement your transcript. Join college prep groups or online communities where experienced homeschool parents share application tips.

What learning resources make homeschooling easier?

Illinois homeschoolers have access to countless educational tools and communities. Local libraries offer free educational materials and study spaces. Online learning platforms provide live classes across all subjects. Join area homeschool co-ops for group activities, field trips, and shared learning experiences. Your local homeschool network can also recommend trusted curriculum options that match your child's interests.

Start your homeschool journey with confidence

Homeschooling in Illinois is more accessible, flexible, and family-focused than ever. With the right tools, community, and resources, you can create a home education that fits your learner and your life.

With supportive communities and tools like Outschool, you can build a learning experience that’s flexible, enriching, and tailored to your child. From live online classes to resources that simplify recordkeeping, Outschool helps you meet Illinois’s guidelines while keeping learning exciting and meaningful.

More resources for Illinois homeschoolers

Looking for more details on programs and benefits available in Illinois? Our guide to the Illinois homeschool tax credit is a great place to start.