How to Homeschool in South Carolina

If you’re wondering how to homeschool in South Carolina, you are not alone — and you are not the first parent to feel both excitement and uncertainty.

Homeschooling is legal, thriving, and growing across our state. According to the South Carolina Department of Education, 39,767 students were homeschooled in 2025. Families across South Carolina are choosing to take an active role in their children’s education, and you can, too.

The good news? Getting started is not as complicated as it may seem.

Below, we’ll walk you step-by-step through how to legally and confidently begin homeschooling in South Carolina.

Important Steps on How to Homeschool in South Carolina

Starting homeschooling in South Carolina involves six clear steps:

1. Understand South Carolina homeschool law

2. Choose your legal homeschool option

3. Complete the required registration process

4. Select your homeschool curriculum

5. Maintain required records

6. Complete testing requirements

Let’s walk through each step together.

Step 1: Understand South Carolina Homeschool Law

Before you begin homeschooling in South Carolina, it’s important to understand the basic legal requirements.

In South Carolina:

• A parent or legal guardian must have at least a high school diploma or GED.

• You must provide at least 180 days of instruction per school year.

• Required subjects include reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.

• In grades 7–12, composition and literature must also be taught.

These requirements ensure that homeschool students receive a well-rounded education while allowing families flexibility in how they teach.

For a detailed breakdown of the law, see our South Carolina Homeschool Laws: Your Complete Guide to Legal Requirements.

Step 2: Choose Your Legal Homeschool Option

South Carolina law provides three legal options for homeschooling.

Option One: Homeschool Through Your Local School District

Parents may homeschool under the supervision of their local school district if approved by the district’s board of trustees.

Option Two: Homeschool with the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS)

Parents may register with SCAIHS, which provides support, guidance, and accountability while allowing parents to remain in control of their child’s education.

Option Three: Join a Third-Option Homeschool Association

Parents may join a homeschool association with at least 50 member families that meets the requirements established under South Carolina law.

Each option operates somewhat differently. The best choice depends on the type of accountability, structure, services, and support your family wants.

For a detailed comparison, see How to Choose the Best Homeschool Option in South Carolina.

Step 3: Complete the Required Registration Process

Once you choose your homeschool option, your next step is to contact the appropriate district or organization and complete its registration process.

If your child is currently enrolled in a public or private school, we strongly recommend completing your homeschool registration before withdrawing your child. This helps ensure a smooth transition and prevents unnecessary concerns about truancy.

If you are making the transition from a public or private school, read our guide to How to Withdraw from Public School in South Carolina.

Step 4: Select Your Homeschool Curriculum

One of the joys of homeschooling is choosing curriculum that fits your child’s needs and your teaching style.

When selecting curriculum, consider:

• Your child’s learning style

• Your preferred homeschool method

• Your available time and budget

• Whether you prefer online, textbook, or blended materials

• Your child’s academic strengths, challenges, interests, and goals

There are hundreds of high-quality homeschool curricula available today. Some families use traditional textbook programs. Others prefer online programs, classical education, unit studies, Charlotte Mason methods, or an eclectic combination.

You do not need a teaching certificate to successfully teach your child. Many curriculum providers design their materials specifically for parents.

If you are registered with SCAIHS, your counselor can help you choose curriculum that fits your student and your family's needs.

You can learn more through our guides to Understanding Learning Styles, Homeschool Methods, and Finding Used Homeschool Curriculum in South Carolina.

You can also explore curriculum options available through the SCAIHS Bookstore.

Step 5: Maintain Required Homeschool Records

South Carolina homeschool families must maintain certain educational records.

Depending upon the option under which you homeschool, these may include:

• Attendance records documenting 180 instructional days

• A plan book or diary showing subjects taught and activities completed

• Samples of your student's academic work

• Records of evaluations

• Semiannual progress reports

Good record keeping does not have to be complicated. These records document your child’s education and can become especially valuable as your student approaches high school, graduation, college, or employment.

For a detailed explanation of the legal requirements, visit our South Carolina Homeschool Laws guide.

For practical help organizing your homeschool records, read What Homeschool Records Do I Need to Keep?

Step 6: Understand Your Testing Requirements

Testing requirements differ depending on which South Carolina homeschool option you choose.

Families homeschooling through their local school district have testing requirements established under Option One.

SCAIHS requires students to complete a nationally normed standardized test every other school year, typically in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11.

Families registered with a third-option association should check with their association to determine its testing requirements.

Standardized testing can provide helpful insight into your child’s academic strengths and areas that may need additional attention. It can also help students gradually become comfortable with formal testing situations.

For more information, read our guide to Standardized Testing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homeschooling in South Carolina

Is homeschooling legal in South Carolina?

Yes. Homeschooling is legal in South Carolina when families comply with the requirements of one of the state's three homeschool options.

Do I need to be a certified teacher to homeschool in South Carolina?

No. South Carolina does not require homeschool parents to hold a teaching certificate. A parent or legal guardian must have at least a high school diploma or GED.

How many homeschool days are required in South Carolina?

South Carolina homeschool students must receive at least 180 days of instruction during the school year.

What subjects do I have to teach?

South Carolina requires instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students in grades 7–12 must also receive instruction in composition and literature.

Can I start homeschooling in the middle of the school year?

Yes. Families can begin homeschooling during the school year. If your child is currently enrolled in another school, make sure you complete the appropriate homeschool registration and withdrawal process so there is no gap in your child's legal educational status.

Can South Carolina homeschool students earn a diploma?

Yes. Diploma and graduation requirements depend upon the option or organization through which a family homeschools.

If you are approaching the high school years, see our High School Homeschool guide for more information about credits, transcripts, graduation planning, and preparing for life after high school.

You Can Homeschool in South Carolina

Homeschooling in South Carolina is both legal and achievable.

If you have a high school diploma or GED and the desire to guide your child’s education, you can homeschool successfully. Thousands of families across our state have discovered that homeschooling gives them the opportunity to provide an education designed around their child while strengthening family relationships along the way.

And you do not have to figure everything out by yourself.

For more than three decades, SCAIHS has walked alongside South Carolina homeschool families with experienced counselors, academic guidance, record keeping, high school planning, and encouragement.

Take the next step with confidence. With clear information and the right support, you can begin your South Carolina homeschool journey with peace of mind.