Homeschooling in Michigan: Your complete guide to getting started

Homeschooling in Michigan offers families a chance to shape education around their own priorities, routines, and values. With the freedom to create learning experiences at home, parents can choose the pace, approach, and resources that work best for their children. This flexibility has made homeschooling an appealing choice for many families across the state.

In the sections ahead, we’ll break down Michigan’s homeschooling laws, what’s required for each option, and practical tips for getting started. We’ll also highlight how Outschool can support your homeschool experience with engaging classes that connect your child to passionate teachers and a wide range of learning opportunities.

Homeschooling options in Michigan

Michigan law gives parents two recognized paths for homeschooling their children. Families may either educate at home under the state’s homeschool statute or register their homeschool as a nonpublic school. Both choices meet the compulsory attendance requirements, but each comes with its own expectations.

Homeschooling under the homeschool statute

Homeschooling under Michigan’s homeschool statute is the simplest path for families. Parents teach their children at home, covering core subjects like reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar. Under this option, there’s no requirement to file paperwork, administer state tests, or hold teacher certification. This path provides the most independence, leaving you free to design your child's own curriculum and keep records at your discretion.

Homeschooling as a nonpublic school

Operating as a nonpublic school means formally registering your homeschool with the state each year. Parents must teach all required subjects, keep documentation of instruction, and either hold a bachelor’s degree themselves or work with someone who does. Though this path involves more oversight, it allows homeschooled students to access services such as special education plans and participation in some nonessential public school courses.

Requirements for homeschooling in Michigan

Michigan gives families flexibility in how they homeschool, but there are still a few guidelines you’ll want to be aware of. Getting a handle on these details makes it easier to choose the path that aligns with your family’s style and needs.

Enrollment paperwork

In Michigan, paperwork requirements differ depending on your chosen path. If you homeschool under the statute, no official forms are needed to get started. However, if you choose to operate as a nonpublic school, you must register each year with the state. This involves submitting the Nonpublic School Membership Report (NSMR) to the Michigan Department of Education, which includes basic information about the homeschool program, the teacher, and the students enrolled.

Attendance and instruction

If you homeschool under Michigan’s statute, you set your own schedule, as there's no required number of days or hours to track. You also don’t need to hold a teaching certificate or degree to instruct your child. Families registering as a nonpublic school, however, must provide instruction comparable to public schools and ensure the teacher has at least a bachelor’s degree or teaches under the supervision of someone who does. Daily attendance logs are not required under this option either.

Curriculum guidelines

The subjects you’ll need to cover depend on which homeschooling path you choose. Michigan law does not require any specific curriculum to be used, but it does outline core areas of study for each option.

• Homeschool statute path: Parents are expected to cover reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar.
• Nonpublic school path: Families need to include mathematics, reading, English, science, social studies, health, and physical education. At the high school level, U.S. and Michigan government, constitutions, and civil government are also required.

Recordkeeping essentials

Michigan doesn’t require strict recordkeeping for every family, but keeping good notes can make your homeschooling journey smoother, especially if your child returns to public school or applies for college later.

Testing and assessments

Michigan does not require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. As the parent, you decide what assessments, quizzes, or progress checks to use within your own curriculum. This gives you the freedom to measure learning in ways that fit your child best.

That said, families do have the option of participating in state testing. Your local public school can provide these tests at no cost, and they may be a helpful way to see how your child is progressing compared to state benchmarks.

Public funding options for homeschoolers in Michigan

Michigan does not provide direct funding for families who homeschool, but there are a few ways students can access public school resources and services. These opportunities can help expand your child’s learning while still keeping your homeschool independent:

• Part-time enrollment in nonessential electives

Michigan law requires districts to allow homeschooled students to enroll in nonessential elective courses on a shared-time basis. This includes classes like art, music, computer science, and career and technical education programs.

• Extracurricular activities

Participation in sports and extracurricular activities is up to each district’s discretion. Homeschoolers do not have a legal right to join public school athletic teams, but some districts voluntarily allow access to sports, clubs, or other school-based activities.

• Special education services

Access to special education services depends on how a family registers their homeschool. Parents who file as a nonpublic school may be eligible for certain disability services through their local district.

• Virtual instruction programs

Some Michigan school districts offer online courses that may be available to homeschoolers on a shared-time basis.

Homeschool with Outschool

Adding variety and outside support can make your Michigan homeschool experience even more rewarding. Outschool offers flexible options that work alongside your home curriculum and give your child opportunities to learn with others in a fun, engaging way.

• Live and self-paced classes that fit into your schedule, whether you want structured lessons or flexible enrichment.
• Core subject support in math, reading, science, and history to reinforce what you’re already teaching at home.
• Creative electives like art, music, and drama that bring extra joy and balance to your homeschool routine.
• STEM exploration with hands-on projects and interactive experiments guided by experienced teachers.
• Social learning opportunities through small group classes, where kids can connect with peers while learning.
• Interest-based learning in topics like coding, animals, space, or storytelling to keep curiosity alive.

Outschool makes it easier to supplement your homeschooling with classes that inspire, challenge, and support your child’s growth. With thousands of options to choose from, you can create a well-rounded homeschool experience that fits your family’s goals.

How to get started

Taking the first step to start homeschooling in Michigan feels much more manageable once you understand that the state makes it genuinely accessible for families. Michigan is classified as a low-regulation state for homeschooling, which means you face minimal bureaucratic hurdles and can focus your energy on creating a learning environment where your child thrives.

If you're homeschooling under the homeschool statute path

• Begin immediately without paperwork: Michigan requires no notification to your school district or state authorities, giving you the freedom to start when you're ready.
• Design your curriculum around required subjects: Include reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar in your educational plan.
• Create a simple recordkeeping system: Track attendance, maintain lesson plans, and save samples of your child's work to document progress and support future transitions.
• Connect with local homeschool communities: Join support groups in your area for encouragement, resources, and social opportunities that enrich your family's experience.
• Start teaching and adapt as you learn: Launch your homeschool program and adjust your approach based on what works best for your child's learning style and interests.

If you're homeschooling as a nonpublic school

• Submit your yearly report: Complete the Nonpublic School Membership Report to the Michigan Department of Education by the required deadline each school year.
• Plan a comprehensive curriculum: Design lessons covering all state-mandated subjects: reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar.
• Document educational activities: Maintain detailed attendance logs, lesson plans, and student work samples to satisfy state expectations and support potential transitions to public school.
• Connect with your community: Join local homeschool groups and integrate Outschool's live online classes into your curriculum for expert instruction and peer interaction.
• Begin instruction confidently: Start teaching with your planned curriculum. It's recommended to establish systems for tracking progress throughout the academic year.
• Update state records: Renew your nonpublic school status with the Michigan Department of Education each year to maintain compliance guidelines and access to pathway-specific benefits.

Find support through homeschool communities in Michigan

Michigan's diverse homeschool support groups create a thriving network that welcomes families from all backgrounds and educational philosophies. The state's organizations range from large statewide networks to intimate local co-ops, each offering unique resources and connections.

Statewide organizations

Michigan homeschool organizations offer complete support, resources, and community connections for families across the state. These established groups provide everything from legal updates to curriculum guidance, helping you build confidence in your homeschooling journey.

• Homeschoolers of Michigan (HOM): Serves families with practical resources, legal information, and advocacy efforts while offering workshops and networking opportunities for parents choosing home education.
• Michigan Secular Homeschoolers: Assists parents pursuing non-religious homeschooling approaches with curriculum recommendations, science resources, and community connections via their Facebook community.
• Michigan Department of Education (MDE): The official state site offering guidance on legal requirements, forms, and contact information for families choosing to homeschool.

Local groups and co-ops

• Secular, Inclusive Homeschoolers of Jackson: A welcoming group for families in the Jackson area who prefer a secular approach. Open to all, it focuses on community, diversity, and sharing resources without a religious framework.
• West Michigan Homeschoolers: One of the largest homeschool networks in the state, this group connects thousands of families to share events, resources, activities, and even buy-and-sell opportunities for curriculum and supplies.
• SWMI Inclusive Learning Community: A co-op based in Southwest Michigan that emphasizes secular, student-driven learning. Families collaborate to create opportunities for projects, group lessons, and community events.
• Secular Homeschoolers of Southeast Michigan: A lively group where families can share ideas, plan activities like science or art days, and connect with other secular homeschoolers across the region.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about homeschooling in Michigan

These questions address what families ask most often when considering this educational path. You'll find practical answers that help you move forward with confidence.

How do I start homeschooling my child in Michigan?

Starting homeschooling depends on which legal pathway you choose. If you homeschool under Michigan's homeschooling statute, you can begin immediately without any paperwork or notification requirements. For the nonpublic school option, you'll need to submit the annual Nonpublic School Membership Report to the Michigan Department of Education before starting instruction.

Can my child participate in public school sports or activities while homeschooling?

Possibly, but it depends on your local school district. Michigan doesn’t require schools to allow homeschoolers to join sports or extracurricular activities, but some districts do welcome homeschool students for certain activities. It’s best to call your district directly and ask what opportunities might be available.

Are there support groups for homeschooling families in Michigan?

Michigan has a strong community of homeschool families and organizations, including statewide groups like Homeschoolers of Michigan and local co-ops throughout the state. These communities offer resources, social opportunities, and encouragement for families at every stage of their homeschooling journey. All families are welcome, regardless of background or educational approach.

Can homeschoolers in Michigan take standardized tests if they want to?

Yes. While there are no required tests for homeschoolers, families can arrange for their children to take state assessments through their local public school at no cost. Some parents also choose private standardized testing as a way to measure progress. Both options are voluntary.

Create your own homeschool path in Michigan

Homeschooling in Michigan gives you remarkable freedom to design an education that truly fits your children. That freedom can feel empowering, but it also comes with the responsibility of making thoughtful choices about curriculum, structure, and recordkeeping.

Alongside your own teaching, you can turn to supportive resources that make the journey easier. Outschool offers live and self-paced online classes that can complement your homeschool program with enrichment opportunities, small group learning, and passionate teachers who bring subjects to life.