Maryland homeschool requirements

Homeschooling is legal in Maryland, but families must follow one of the state’s approved home instruction options.

Medium: Maryland allows homeschooling through several legal pathways, including the portfolio option supervised by the local school system and umbrella-style options through certain nonpublic schools or church-related programs. The common direct route requires a notice of consent, regular instruction in the usual school subjects, a portfolio of work, and periodic reviews.

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Yes. Most homeschool families submit a Notice of Consent form, though umbrella-style options may route oversight differently. Notify: Usually the superintendent of the local school system for the portfolio option, or the supervising nonpublic school or church umbrella for certain alternative options.. Deadline: Generally at least 15 days before starting a home instruction program, again each year, and within 15 days after moving into a new county.

English, Mathematics, Science, Social studies, Art, Music, Health, Physical education

Maryland requires regular, thorough instruction during the school year. The state does not use a simple homeschool hour total in the main guidance, but families should teach consistently across the full school year.

No statewide standardized testing requirement applies just for homeschooling, but the portfolio option includes regular portfolio reviews and umbrella programs may have their own oversight rules. Frequency: No statewide homeschool testing schedule. Under the portfolio option, portfolio reviews are generally held at least three times each year.

For the portfolio option, keep a portfolio showing instructional materials, reading materials, and examples of the student’s work. The portfolio must be available for review at the times required by the supervising authority.

Maryland does not require a parent to hold a teaching license or specific degree to homeschool.

Moderate. Parents may choose their curriculum, but they must provide regular, thorough instruction and be able to show that required subject areas are being taught.