Great news — Georgia has some of the most straightforward homeschool laws in the country. You've got this, and we're here to help you every step of the way.
Declaration of Intent
One form, once per year
180 Days
Of instruction per year
Core Subjects
Reading, math, language arts, more
Assessments
Annual reports + testing every 3 years
This is your first (and most important) step. Georgia requires you to notify the state that you're homeschooling. Don't worry — it's just a simple online form that takes about 10 minutes.
Georgia requires 180 days of school per year, with at least 4.5 hours of instruction each day. This is very achievable — many homeschool families find they can cover more material in less time than traditional schools.
Days Per Year
September through May is typical
Hours Per Day
Minimum instruction time
Days Per Week
Flexible scheduling allowed
Georgia requires instruction in these core areas. You have complete freedom in how you teach them — use any curriculum, method, or materials that work for your family.
Reading
Phonics, literature, comprehension
Language Arts
Writing, grammar, spelling
Mathematics
Appropriate to grade level
Social Studies
History, geography, civics
Science
Natural sciences, experiments
Note: You can absolutely teach additional subjects like art, music, physical education, foreign languages, and more. The state only requires the five subjects above.
Georgia requires two types of assessment — an annual progress report you write, plus standardized testing that begins in 3rd grade.
At the end of each school year, write a brief assessment of your child's progress in each required subject. This can be as simple as a page noting strengths, areas of growth, and goals for next year.
Starting at the end of 3rd grade, your child must take a nationally standardized test every three years (so end of 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th grades).
Accepted Tests:
Georgia requires you to keep basic records. This doesn't have to be complicated — a simple notebook or digital tracker works great.
Records to Keep:
You don't need a teaching degree, but Georgia does require the teaching parent to have at least a high school diploma or GED. You can also hire a tutor (who must also have a diploma or GED) to help teach certain subjects.
Absolutely. You can choose to homeschool any or all of your children. Each child you homeschool needs to be included in your Declaration of Intent.
No problem! File your Declaration of Intent within 30 days of starting. You'll need to complete enough days to meet the 180-day requirement, but you can adjust your end date accordingly.
Yes! The Dexter Mosely Act (2021) allows homeschool students in grades 6-12 to participate in public school extracurricular and sports activities. You'll need to notify the school 30 days before the semester, provide your child's progress report, and meet the same eligibility requirements as enrolled students. Note: If your child recently withdrew from public school, there's a 12-month waiting period.
As a homeschool parent, you create your child's transcript and issue their diploma. Georgia colleges, including UGA and Georgia State, accept homeschool diplomas. Keep detailed records of coursework and grades — you'll need these for college applications and HOPE Scholarship eligibility.
The fact that you're researching requirements shows you're already a dedicated parent. Georgia makes homeschooling accessible, and with a little organization, you'll find it incredibly rewarding. Welcome to the Georgia homeschool community!