Homeschooling in Tennessee: A parent's essential guide

Tennessee offers some of the most flexible homeschooling regulations in the nation, giving families three distinct pathways to create learning experiences that match their values, schedules, and children's unique needs. Whether you're drawn to complete independence or want the structure of an online school, homeschooling in Tennessee gives you the freedom to choose what works best for your family.

From legal requirements to curriculum choices, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about Tennessee's homeschooling options. You'll also discover how online platforms like Outschool can support your homeschool journey.

Homeschooling options in Tennessee

Tennessee families have three pathways to legally homeschool: through your school district, with the help of a church-related school, or by enrolling in a state-approved online private school. The key is picking the one that fits your comfort level with teaching, recordkeeping, and how much support you’d like along the way.

Independent home school

This is the most hands-on option. You register directly with your local school district and take full responsibility for everything, such as curriculum, instruction, and records. It gives you the most freedom to shape learning, as long as you follow annual filing and recordkeeping requirements.

Church-related umbrella school

With this path, you enroll through a church-related school that handles most of the paperwork for you. These schools may offer support services like transcripts, co-ops, or guidance, while still letting you teach your child at home.

Category III online school

This route involves enrolling in a fully accredited online private school approved by the state. The school takes care of instruction, grading, and records, making it a good option for families who want structure and teacher-led learning from home.

Requirements for homeschooling in Tennessee

No matter which option you go with, you’ll need to stay on top of paperwork, attendance, and basic educational guidelines. Once you understand what’s expected, staying compliant becomes a routine part of your homeschool year.

Enrollment paperwork

Each homeschooling path in Tennessee comes with its own documentation requirements and submission process, so it’s important to know exactly what to file and where your paperwork needs to go.

• Independent Home School: You'll need to submit a Notice of Intent to Home School to your local school district at the start of each school year. This includes your child’s name, grade level, your homeschool address, curriculum info, proof of your high school diploma or GED, and a current immunization record or exemption letter. This paperwork must be submitted before instruction begins or immediately after withdrawing your child from public or private school.
• Church-Related Umbrella School: When enrolling in a church-related umbrella school, your paperwork goes directly to that school, not the district. Each program sets its own enrollment policies, which may include application forms, curriculum documentation, or immunization records. The umbrella school then oversees legal compliance on your behalf, which means fewer forms to handle yourself.
• Accredited Online School (Category III): These state-recognized private schools manage all compliance paperwork internally. You’ll complete enrollment directly through the school, which must be accredited by an agency approved by the Tennessee Department of Education. As long as the school is officially recognized, your local school district requires no separate notice or documentation.

Enrollment deadlines vary for umbrella and online schools, so reaching out early prevents last-minute complications and gives you plenty of time to gather any required documentation.

Attendance and instruction

If you're homeschooling independently in Tennessee, you’ll need to teach for at least 4 hours a day across 180 days each school year. You can choose the daily schedule that works best for your family as long as it’s consistent. Parents also need a high school diploma or a GED to qualify as a teacher.

Choosing an umbrella or online school instead? They’ll walk you through their own attendance and teaching expectations, which might look a little different from the independent route.

Curriculum guidelines

You’re free to pick your own curriculum as an independent homeschooler in Tennessee, as there’s no official list of required subjects. Still, it’s smart to cover the basics and keep things well-rounded. If you're under an umbrella or online school, they may have set curriculum options or requirements to follow.

Recordkeeping essentials

If you’re homeschooling independently in Tennessee, keeping good records is part of the deal. You’ll need to maintain attendance logs and a portfolio that includes samples of your child’s work, reading lists, and subject activity summaries. Hold onto these in case your local school district requests them.

If you're with an umbrella or online school, they usually manage this, but you might want to keep your own records too for peace of mind.

Testing and assessments

Standardized testing is required for independent homeschoolers in Tennessee during 5th, 7th, and 9th grade. Your district will let you know when and where to take the same test given in public schools. If scores show your child is behind by more than a year, the district can place your homeschool on a one-year probation. Umbrella and online schools typically have their own assessment guidelines, so testing expectations may vary depending on the program you choose.

Homeschool with Outschool

Looking to add variety and connection to your homeschool day? Outschool offers live, online classes that make learning more engaging while giving families flexibility to explore new topics and build strong study habits.

Here’s what Outschool can offer your homeschool routine:

• Live small-group classes led by experienced educators
• Flexible scheduling to fit your family’s pace and rhythm
• Project-based learning that sparks creativity and critical thinking
• Social opportunities through interest-based clubs and workshops
• Courses in core subjects, arts, life skills, coding, and more

Whether you're new to homeschooling or looking to enrich your current approach, Outschool is a trusted partner in helping your child stay curious and motivated.

How to get started

Once you’ve picked your preferred homeschooling path, it’s time to take those first concrete steps. Here’s what to expect based on your chosen homeschool path:

If you're homeschooling as an independent homeschool

• Submit a Notice of Intent to your local superintendent before the school year begins or when you withdraw your child from public school.
• Include required documentation, like proof of the parent-teacher's high school diploma or GED.
• Choose your own curriculum. You’ll need to submit a basic outline, but you aren’t restricted to any specific materials.
• Plan for 180 days of instruction, with at least four hours per day.
• Keep a portfolio of attendance, assignments, and reading materials.
• Prepare for standardized testing in grades 5, 7, and 9, which is administered by the local school district.

If you're enrolling in a church-related umbrella school

• Choose an umbrella school from Tennessee’s list of approved non-public schools.
• Contact the school directly to learn about their enrollment process and fees.
• Follow the umbrella’s curriculum guidelines, if provided, or select your own if they allow it.
• Submit records or updates as required by the umbrella school.
• Stay in touch. Many umbrella schools offer events, co-ops, or progress checks throughout the year.

If you're enrolling in a Category III online school

• Pick a Tennessee-approved online school that’s accredited by a recognized agency like Cognia or MSA-CESS.
• Enroll directly with the online school; no additional paperwork is needed for your local district.
• Let the program guide you; curriculum, grading, and transcripts are all managed by the school.
• Attend classes online from home, with full teacher support built in.
• Use the program’s schedule and tools to stay on track throughout the year.

Find support through homeschool communities in Tennessee

Across Tennessee, you’ll find inclusive statewide networks and local co-ops that offer support, resources, and real-life community. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to connect with others on the same path, these groups are a great place to start.

Statewide organizations

• Tennessee Homeschool Support – An inclusive group for families using all homeschool methods and philosophies. The space is non-commercial and focused on peer support, with helpful group albums on co-ops, umbrella programs, and more.
• Tennessee Department of Education – Offers official guidance on homeschooling options, requirements, and pathways across the state.

Local groups and co-ops

• Eclectic, Secular, Progressive Homeschoolers of Middle Tennessee – A diverse, actively inclusive group for families who value secular learning, equity, and safe community spaces. Great for connecting over shared values and progressive educational approaches.
• Catoosa Home Education Association – A regional group based in northwest Georgia with many members in the Chattanooga area. Offers connection and activities for families across state lines.
• Sevier County Homeschoolers – A nonprofit volunteer-run group offering field trips, co-ops, curriculum swaps, family events, and graduation ceremonies for families in Sevier County and nearby areas.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about homeschooling in Tennessee

Parents exploring homeschooling often have similar questions about Tennessee's requirements and processes. These Tennessee homeschooling FAQs cover the most common concerns families have when considering this educational path for their children.

What are the legal requirements for homeschooling in Tennessee?

Tennessee is considered a low-regulation state for homeschooling, giving you significant flexibility in your educational approach. You must hold a high school diploma or GED, provide at least 180 days of instruction with four hours per day, and maintain attendance records. If you choose the independent homeschool pathway, you'll need to submit an annual notice of intent to your district before the school year begins.

How do I start homeschooling my child in Tennessee?

Your first step is choosing one of Tennessee's three legal homeschooling pathways: independent homeschool, church-related umbrella school, or Category III online school. 

For independent homeschooling, you'll file a notice of intent with your district and begin planning your curriculum and daily schedule. If you select an umbrella school or online program, you'll enroll directly with that institution and follow their guidelines.

Do I need to use a specific curriculum for homeschooling in Tennessee?

No. Tennessee gives you complete freedom to choose your curriculum and teaching methods. Umbrella schools and online programs may have their own curriculum guidelines, so you can verify their approach when making your choice.

Are standardized tests required for Tennessee homeschoolers?

Independent homeschoolers must participate in standardized testing administered by their district in grades 5, 7, and 9. Umbrella schools and Category III online schools may have different assessment policies, so you can check with them about their testing approach during enrollment. These tests help you track your child's progress and meet state compliance guidelines.

Homeschooling in Tennessee made simple

With three flexible pathways to choose from and relatively low oversight, homeschooling families in Tennessee have room to create learning environments that truly work. Once you understand the requirements and choose your preferred path, building a confident, connected homeschool experience becomes much more manageable.

Your homeschool experience can be enriched with engaging online classes that spark curiosity and build connections with learners from around the world. Explore Outschool's classes to discover thousands of live, interactive learning opportunities that complement your chosen homeschool pathway and help your child thrive in subjects they're passionate about.