{"id":3748,"date":"2023-02-15T19:16:25","date_gmt":"2023-02-15T19:16:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.staging.miacademy.co\/?page_id=3748"},"modified":"2026-04-06T22:31:15","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T22:31:15","slug":"south-carolina-homeschool-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/miacademy.co\/homeschool-curriculum\/by-state\/south-carolina-homeschool-laws\/","title":{"rendered":"South Carolina Homeschool Laws Made Simple (2026 Guide)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you’re considering homeschooling in South Carolina, you\u2019re in good company!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

South Carolina homeschool requirements are fairly easy to follow. The state offers three options to start homeschooling<\/a>: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Through the local school district;<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Through SCAIHS; or<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Through a South Carolina homeschool association.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n


    In this article, we\u2019ll explore all three options, so you can start homeschooling in South Carolina with success. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Home Schooling in South Carolina at a Glance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    South Carolina – The Palmetto State<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    Age<\/td>5-17<\/td><\/tr>
    Standardized Testing<\/td>Required for Option 1<\/td><\/tr>
    Subjects<\/td>Math, science, history, reading (or literature), and writing (or composition), at minimum.<\/td><\/tr>
    Time Requirements<\/td>180 days per year<\/td><\/tr>
    Graduation Requirements<\/td>Determined by parent for options 1 & 3<\/td><\/tr>
    Special Requirements<\/td>None<\/td><\/tr>
    Financial Assistance Available<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
    \"Image<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    There are three options to homeschool in South Carolina. Each option is different, so take some time to explore which one will be the best fit for your family!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Option 1: The School District<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Families who follow this route must have their chosen curriculum approved by the local school district, and give their students access to library facilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    With this option, students must take a readiness test to start first grade. In addition, all students must participate in yearly standardized testing starting in 3rd grade. If the student does not meet minimum standards, the district may require that the student receive additional instructional support. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Parents are responsible for thorough recordkeeping, including documenting all activities, materials, attendance, and evaluation results. While the school district oversees learning, parents are responsible for graduating their student at the end of their studies. Parents determine when their student is ready to graduate and provide a homeschool diploma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Option 2: SCAIHS<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The second option under SC homeschool laws is homeschooling through the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS)<\/a>. SCAIHS is a faith-based organization that provides scheduling assistance, guidance counseling, and other services for homeschooled students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    SCAIHS requires annual membership fees, plus annual testing for students in grades 3-11. Parents must keep track of attendance and provide progress reports for each student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    SCAIHS students receive a diploma from the organization, and they are able to participate in a formal graduation ceremony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Option 3: A SC Homeschool Association<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The most popular option for homeschooling is homeschooling through a South Carolina Homeschool Association. The South Carolina Department of Education provides an updated list of participating homeschool associations<\/a> for each school year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    This option allows parents to choose their own curriculum and teaching style.Testing is not mandatory with this option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    When choosing a homeschool association, find out if their policies and services align with your needs. Additionally, make sure that association is credible since they\u2019ll have a big impact on your student\u2019s education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Parent Qualifications <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    For all three options, parents must have a high school diploma or equivalent to teach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Notice of Intent <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Families who homeschool under the school district must register their child with their chosen district. This is due within 10 days of the first day of school. You can begin this process by reaching out to your child\u2019s school district to learn about their application and approval process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If the district does not approve your application, you may submit an appeal to the State Board of Education within 10 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Families homeschooling under SCAIHS or with a homeschool association are responsible for registering with those organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Attendance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Students between the ages of 5-17 must receive at least 180 days of instruction per year, with each instructional day lasting at least 4.5 hours (not including lunch or recess). If you start homeschooling mid-year<\/a>, the days attending public schools count toward the requirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \"Aerial<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    South Carolina Homeschool Curriculum<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    All students in South Carolina must learn the following: <\/p>\n\n\n\n