Homeschooling in Texas: Complete Guide for Parents

Are you thinking about homeschooling in Texas? Is your child struggling in traditional school? Or you just want better control over what they learn? Whatever the reason, you'll be glad to know that Texas makes homeschooling easier than most states.

Under a 1994 Texas Supreme Court decision (Leeper v. Arlington ISD), homeschools are treated as private schools. Thanks to this, you get almost complete freedom over your child's education without a mountain of paperwork or state inspectors.

This guide covers everything you need to know about homeschooling in Texas. From legal requirements to the curriculum's focus to the benefits of homeschooling. Here’s a closer look at what Texas homeschooling really looks like.

Is Homeschooling Legal in Texas? Understanding Texas Homeschool Laws

Yes, homeschooling is completely legal in Texas. Texas ranks among the least regulated states for homeschooling in the U.S.

Texas law actually treats homeschools as private schools. That means the Texas Education Agency (TEA) doesn't oversee your homeschool the way it monitors public schools. No state registration, forms to file, teaching credentials required, or minimum hours. There’s also no standardized testing.

The process is simple. First, you’ll need to withdraw your child from school if they're currently enrolled. Most families simply send a letter to the school district to inform them that they’re starting homeschooling. Some districts provide withdrawal forms, but there is no law requiring them. A straightforward letter works fine.

You’ll also need a bona fide curriculum that covers five subjects (more on that in a minute), as well as visual formats such as books, videos, workbooks, or computer programs in your teaching. If you’re wondering where to find good materials, you can explore our extensive learning resources.

While it is unlikely you’ll encounter legal issues, the Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) can offer you all the help you need if any challenges arise. The THSC has defended homeschool rights for decades and knows how to navigate complex situations with school districts.

Texas Homeschool Requirements: The Five Basic Subjects

Texas homeschooling curriculum is simplified enough for most parents, as the law only requires you to teach five core subjects:

• Reading
• Spelling
• Grammar
• Math
• Good citizenship

The first four are often easy for parents who intend to homeschool their children to understand. However, good citizenship usually requires additional information.

What “Good Citizenship” Really Means

Good citizenship focuses on teaching children to be responsible and contribute positively to their community.

The Texas homeschooling law doesn’t specify what it should entail, but the omission was intentional. The Texas Supreme Court allows parents to decide what good citizenship looks like for their family.

Some families choose to focus on American history and government. Others teach character education and community service, including civic rights and duties. You get to shape this part of your child's education. 

You're only legally required to teach those five subjects, but many families choose to teach science, history, art, music, and physical education. Everything beyond the basic five is your choice.

Creating Your Homeschool Curriculum in Texas

In Texas, one of the benefits of homeschooling is that you have nearly complete freedom to design your homeschool curriculum as you please. Some families use traditional textbooks with clear lesson plans. Others prefer online programs where kids work at their own pace. Many mix approaches depending on the subject.

You can decide to integrate a structured math program from one company, a reading program from another, and self-designed science lessons with experiments and field trips. All that matters is that you cover the five required subjects.

Here are popular approaches adopted by parents who homeschool in Texas:

Traditional Textbooks

Here, everything is mapped out for you. You get teacher guides, student books, tests, and a clear scope and sequence. It works well if you want structure without spending hours planning lessons.

Online Programs 

Typically, it includes video lessons, interactive activities, self-paced learning, and automatic grading. You will find extensive learning resources through the Tuttle Twins Academy, Time4Learning, and Khan Academy, which offer visual content that works well for kids who learn by seeing and doing. Your child can replay lessons they don't understand and move quickly through material they grasp easily. 

Interest-led Learning (Unschooling) 

Teaching based on your child’s interests makes the learning experience more enjoyable for both of you. If they're obsessed with dinosaurs, turn that into reading (dinosaur books), writing (reports on favorite species), math (timeline calculations), and science (paleontology). Kids stay motivated because they're learning about topics that excite them.

Classical Education

This method focuses on grammar (memorization), logic (reasoning), and rhetoric (persuasive communication). Programs like Classical Conversations provide community support and a structured approach. You'll study history chronologically in four-year cycles.

Charlotte Mason Method 

Short lessons using living books (engaging narratives instead of dry textbooks), nature study, art appreciation, and narration. Kids spend 15-30 minutes on each subject instead of grinding through hour-long lessons.

Unit Studies

Unit studies integrate multiple subjects around a single theme. An Ancient Egypt unit might include reading Egyptian mythology, practicing hieroglyphs, calculating pyramid dimensions, studying geography, and creating art projects. Everything connects to one topic, helping students see how subjects relate to real life.

Some of these programs are accredited, which can simplify record-keeping or school transfers. Others aren't accredited but offer greater customization.

This freedom is what makes Texas homeschooling so appealing, even giving you the liberty to homeschool without using any textbooks at all. You can teach through stories, hands-on activities, experiments, or field trips, adding engaging activities to help your child stay interested in learning throughout the homeschool journey.

It’s essential to recognize that your child’s needs will change over time. What works for kindergarten might not work for middle school, and what works for one child might do nothing for their sibling. Stay flexible and don’t be afraid to adjust things to fit your child’s needs.

Accredited vs Non-Accredited Homeschool Programs

When you're picking a homeschool program, you'll often see the terms "accredited" and "non-accredited."

An accredited program means a recognized accrediting organization has reviewed it and certified that it meets specific educational standards. These programs often provide a set curriculum and standardized grading systems. The accreditation comes from organizations such as AdvancED, the Middle States Association, or regional accrediting bodies.

One key benefit of accredited programs is that they make transitions smoother. If your child transfers to a traditional school, administrators may be more familiar with the curriculum and more willing to accept course credits without additional testing. 

For college admissions, some institutions prefer accredited transcripts because they provide standardized benchmarks. Popular accredited homeschool programs include K12, Northgate Academy, and Bridgeway Academy.

However, accreditation doesn't guarantee quality, and lack of accreditation doesn't mean a program is inferior. Many excellent homeschool curricula aren't accredited simply because the publishers chose not to go through the accreditation process. Non-accredited programs actually offer more flexibility. 

You can mix and match resources, adapt your pace to your child's needs, skip subjects they've mastered, and often spend considerably less money. Most Texas homeschoolers use non-accredited curricula or create their own programs from various resources.

The real consideration is what you want for your child. If you know your child will likely transfer to a traditional school, or if you want the reassurance of external validation, accredited programs may provide peace of mind. If you're committed to homeschooling through graduation and want maximum flexibility to tailor your child's education to their unique needs and learning style, non-accredited approaches are well-suited. 

Many homeschoolers successfully enter college from non-accredited programs. Strong SAT/ACT scores and a well-documented transcript matter more than accreditation for most colleges.

Once you identify your priorities, the right choice becomes clearer.

How to Start Homeschooling in Texas: Step-by-Step

Starting homeschooling in Texas is refreshingly simple. You don't have to file forms with the Texas Education Agency or wait for approval. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to start homeschooling your child in Texas:

Step 1: Withdraw Your Child from Their Current School (if Applicable)

If your child is currently enrolled in a school, you’ll need to reach out to your school district to inform them that you're homeschooling. Some districts have withdrawal forms; others just want a letter. Remember to keep a copy of that letter for your records.

Step 2: Choose Your Curriculum Approach

This is where you begin to take control over your child’s learning process. Do you want a complete boxed curriculum, or would you prefer to build your own program? Online or textbooks? You don't need to have everything available at the start. Many families start with just math and language arts, then add subjects as they get comfortable.

Step 3: Set up Your Learning Space 

Your child’s new learning space doesn't have to be glamorous, but it should be functional and conducive to learning. Some families dedicate a room, others use the kitchen table. What matters is having storage for materials and a spot where your child can focus without constant distractions.

Step 4: Create a Schedule that Actually Works for Your Family 

You may start at 8 AM or sleep in and begin at 10 AM. Consistency helps kids know what to expect, but flexibility is one of homeschooling's most significant advantages. You can adjust as needed.

While Texas doesn't require record-keeping, you should do it anyway, as college applications will need transcripts. If you re-enroll your child in public school, they'll also want documentation. Create a simple system now, rather than trying to reconstruct years of work later. Your future self will appreciate this. 

Homeschool Support Groups and Co-ops in Texas

The Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) is the most critical organization for Texas homeschoolers. They provide legal assistance if school districts challenge your right to homeschool. They also advocate for homeschool rights at the state legislature.

Some of the benefits that members get include transcript services, legal consultations, and graduation ceremonies. Many families join specifically for legal protection. It’s insurance you hope never to need but appreciate having. 

In addition to the THSC, there are local support groups for homeschoolers in virtually every Texas city. These groups organize park days, field trips, science fairs, and parent meetings. Finding them is as easy as a Google search. Simply search for "homeschool" on Facebook, then add your city name. You’ll find groups meeting regularly near you.

Additionally, you can get extra support through Co-ops. Families share teaching responsibilities based on their strengths. For example, one parent might be great at science and offer to teach it, while another takes on art classes. 

That way, your child receives instruction from multiple adults with different areas of expertise. You also get to take a break from teaching every subject yourself. Co-ops also provide social opportunities. Your children can make friends with other homeschoolers who can relate to their experiences.

Not every group will be a perfect fit for your family, and that’s completely normal. You might need to try a few before finding the one that clicks. You just have to keep looking until you find families who share your values and whose kids click with yours.

Online Learning and Virtual School Options in Texas

Online learning and virtual schools aren’t the same thing as homeschooling in Texas. Understanding the difference between them is crucial because it affects your legal status and responsibilities. 

Public Virtual Schools

The Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) and programs such as K12 Texas and Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville are public online schools. When you enroll your child in these programs, they become a public school student who learns from home. This means:

1. The school controls the curriculum and pacing
2. Your child must take state-mandated standardized tests (STAAR)
3. Attendance is tracked and required
4. The school assigns teachers who oversee your child's education
5. You must follow the school's schedule and calendar
6. Your child is subject to all public school policies and regulations

You're not homeschooling in this scenario. You’re simply doing public school at home. The school still makes educational decisions, not you. The freedom that comes with homeschooling is all gone.

Texas Homeschooling

When you homeschool in Texas, you are running a private school. It means:

• You choose every aspect of the curriculum
• You decide the schedule and pace
• No standardized testing is required
• No attendance reporting to the state
• You answer to no one regarding educational choices (as long as you meet the five basic subject requirements)
• Your child is not enrolled in any public or private school system

Homeschoolers can use online resources such as Time4Learning, Khan Academy, or Outschool. The key difference is that you're using these as tools you've selected, not as a school program you're enrolled in. You remain the administrator of your child's education with full authority over how, when, and what they learn.

Beyond K-12 online tools, Texas also offers high school students opportunities to get a head start on college.

Extracurricular Activities and Socialization

Many people assume homeschooled kids miss out on social opportunities and extracurricular activities, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Your kids will probably have more time for extracurriculars than they would if they were sitting in school for seven hours a day.

Field Trips and Real World Learning

In traditional classrooms, field trips might be once every few months, if at all. With Texas Homeschool, you can make them more regular for your child. You can visit museums on weekday mornings when they're nearly empty. 

State parks and nature centers often offer special homeschool days with discounts for group visits. You can schedule all of this without worrying about your child missing school. They are at school!

Co-ops, Group Learning, and Sports

Homeschool co-ops offer both academics and built-in social interaction. Kids learn together, work on group projects, and form friendships naturally.

Many Texas cities have sports leagues specifically for homeschoolers. Some homeschoolers also participate in public school sports through the University Interscholastic League, though this depends on local district policies. Make sure to check with your district’s athletic director to find out if they allow homeschool participation. 

Activities Beyond Sports

Beyond sports and museums, homeschoolers regularly participate in:

• Music lessons
• Martial arts
• Dance classes
• Theater groups
• Scout troops

Many homeschoolers volunteer regularly at libraries, food banks, animal shelters, or nursing homes. Volunteering provides opportunities to give back to the community while socializing and meeting people.

Homeschooled kids interact with people of all ages, not just peers born the same year. They speak with librarians, store employees, elderly neighbors, and younger children.

Research from the National Home Education Research Institute shows that homeschoolers develop social skills just fine. Sometimes they even perform better than peers who are traditionally schooled. The key is to ensure your children have enough opportunities to interact with others through activities they enjoy.

Record Keeping for Texas Homeschoolers

Texas doesn’t require homeschool record-keeping, but that doesn’t mean you should skip it altogether. Records are necessary because when the time comes, colleges will require transcripts. If you also choose to go back to public schooling, they might require transcripts as well.

Here are the main records you should keep when homeschooling your child:

• Attendance Logs: Mark school days on a calendar; simple check marks work fine.
• Grades: These help when you create high school transcripts. You don't need complicated charts. Simple letter grades or percentages work well.
• Work Samples: Keep a few pieces of work from each subject: writing samples, math tests, science projects, art — anything that shows growth. You don't need every paper; just examples that demonstrate learning.
• Reading List: Write down the books your child reads. This list supports college applications and demonstrates the variety of their learning.
• Course Descriptions (for High School): Include a short explanation of what each class covered: books used, topics learned, and significant projects.

High School Homeschooling in Texas

High school homeschooling in Texas works just like the earlier grades. You still teach the five required subjects with a real curriculum. That’s the whole rulebook: no surprise paperwork, no state testing, and no special approval from anyone.

Creating Transcripts and Assigning Credits

You’re in charge of transcripts. You’ll list the courses your teen completed, assign grades, and give credits. This may sound daunting, but it’s actually quite easy with the right resources.

One credit usually means a full year of work in a subject, taught several times per week. You track what your teen learned, check their progress, and put it on a transcript. If you don’t want to start from scratch, THSC offers transcript templates. A basic transcript only needs:

• Course name
• Final grade
• Credit earned

Issuing a Homeschool Diploma

You also provide the diploma certificate once your teen completes the graduation plan you set. It’s legally valid, and colleges, employers, and even the military accept it. Families who want a ceremony often join THSC events or local groups for celebrations.

College Sports and NCAA Eligibility

If your child hopes to play college sports, start planning early. The NCAA has strict course lists and academic rules. Homeschoolers can meet them, but waiting until senior year creates unnecessary headaches. Some families use the Nan CAA-approved curriculum. Others get help from organizations that specialize in athlete paperwork. The NCAA Eligibility Center has all the details.

Dual Credit Options in Texas

Dual credit is also an option. Most Texas colleges let high schoolers earn college and high school credit at the same time. Some schools require placement tests like the TSI, while others accept SAT or ACT scores. The policies are not the same across the board, so it helps to reach out early.

College Applications for Homeschool Students

College applications from homeschoolers are typical these days. Most colleges have instructions just for homeschool families. You’ll have to submit:

• A parent-created transcript
• Brief course descriptions
• Standardized test scores
• Recommendation letters

Since public school GPAs are easier for colleges to compare, strong SAT or ACT scores help homeschoolers stand out. Plan for testing in junior year so you have room for retakes if needed.

Re-enrolling in Public School After Homeschooling

Life changes; teens or parents may change their minds, and schedules can become harder to accommodate the homeschooling lifestyle. If that happens, the district will place your child where they think is appropriate. Remember the records we discussed earlier. You’ll need to share them so they can see what you taught.

If you completed an accredited program, your credits are usually accepted without additional testing. In non-accredited curricula, districts might administer placement tests. They're not being difficult; they simply need a way to determine where your teen fits. Testing helps them decide which classes count and which may need to be repeated.

Texas treats homeschools like unaccredited private schools, so districts have the final say on grade level and credits. Knowing this in advance helps, and this is where records come in handy. The more details you have, the smoother the transition will be.

Special Education and Homeschooling in Texas

You can homeschool a child with special needs. The legal requirements remain the same; however, once you withdraw from public school, IEP (Individualized Education Program) services end. That’s usually the most prominent factor families weigh.

There are a couple of private therapy options you can try out. Some of them include speech therapy, occupational therapy, educational therapy, and specialized tutors. Insurance may cover some of it. Many parents also report that the flexible schedule makes therapy easier to manage.

Texas also has support groups specifically for special needs homeschoolers. These groups share resources and recommend therapists. They even offer support from parents who understand long days, challenging subjects, and small victories.

Homeschooling can help some students by allowing you to adjust the pace as needed. You’re allowed to add sensory breaks where you deem necessary. You can use a curriculum designed for learning differences, such as All About Reading or Teaching Textbooks.

Be honest about the time and effort it takes. Some families find it worth every effort. Others believe public school services are too essential to abandon. Both choices are valid.

Resources for Texas Homeschool Families

The Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) is usually the first stop for families seeking homeschool resources. They offer legal assistance, transcripts, events, and support for districts unsure about homeschool laws. Many families join mainly for peace of mind.

Texas Home Educators (THE) also helps families connect through guides and regional groups. The Texas Education Agency webpage does not guide homeschooling. However, it can show what public schools teach across grade levels, which is helpful when planning.

From complete boxed sets to online programs to specialized subjects, the curriculum options are so many. It can feel overwhelming at first, so talking to other homeschool parents can help you avoid buying something your child will hate by week two.

Online learning tools like Tuttle Twins Academy, Time4Learning, Khan Academy, and Outschool add structure without tying you to public school rules.

Remember the old saying that the library is your friend. It’s totally accurate. They’re an absolute gem here. From books to classes to museum passes, and other homeschool families right down the aisle.

Museums across Texas host homeschool days with hands-on learning and discounted tickets. Space Center Houston and the Bullock Museum are popular stops.

Tuttle Twins' curriculum offers resources for families looking to teach economics, government, and critical thinking in a kid-friendly way.

Conclusion

With confidence in public schooling in America at an all-time low, Homeschooling in Texas is a very appealing option for you and your child. It’s legal, simple, and far more common than people think. Families from every background make it work. Some have teaching experience, most don’t. What they do have is commitment to their kids.

Texas law gives you room to build the education that fits your child. And with resources like Tuttle Twins Homeschool bundles, planning becomes easier and much less stressful.

If you still have questions, check out our blog for real stories, practical tips, and advice from families who’ve walked this road already.

References

• Leeper et al. v. Arlington ISD et al. (1994). Texas Supreme Court. 835 S.W.2d 54.
• Texas Home School Coalition. (n.d.). Homeschooling in Texas: Legal requirements and FAQs. Retrieved December 13, 2025, from Texas Home School Coalition website.
• Texas Education Agency. (n.d.). Private and homeschooling guidelines. Retrieved December 13, 2025, from Texas Education Agency website.
• National Home Education Research Institute. (n.d.). Homeschooling and socialization research. Retrieved December 13, 2025, from National Home Education Research Institute website.