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Michigan · Light-touch
Michigan does not ask you to file anything before you begin. Here is what the state does expect, and what it leaves entirely to you.
VerifiedMarch 2026
Written from Michigan's own rules. If a step is missing below, it is because your state does not ask for it.
Withdraw from the school your child attends now
If your child is currently enrolled in a public school, tell the school in writing that you are moving to home education. Keep a dated copy for yourself — it is the record that closes out their enrollment.
There is no notice to file
Michigan does not ask you to notify anyone before you begin. You can start the day you are ready — no form, no permission, no waiting.
Cover the subjects the state names
Michigan names 9 subject areas to teach. How you teach them, in what order, and with which materials is entirely up to you.
Keep a light record as you go
Attendance, a few work samples each term, and a running list of what you covered. Michigan does not require you to keep records, but a simple folder of work samples makes transcripts and college applications far easier later on.
Nothing to file
Michigan does not require a notice of intent, an application, or the state's permission. You do not need to wait for a reply from anyone, because there is no one to write to. There is no ongoing reporting either.
No testing or assessment
Michigan does not require a standardized test or an evaluator's review. Plenty of families still keep a folder of work through the year — not because the state asks, but because it makes a transcript or a college application far easier to put together later. A note from the state: No state-mandated assessment under the homeschool statute. Home-schooled students may take the state assessments at their local public school at no cost; this is optional.
No program on file yet
We do not have a verified Michigan education savings account, scholarship, or tax credit for homeschooling families on file. That may mean the state has none, or it may mean we have not confirmed one yet — we would rather say so than point you at something we have not checked. State programs change often, so it is worth asking Local and intermediate school districts enforce the attendance law; Michigan Department of Education Nonpublic and Home School Office (information) directly.
Is homeschooling legal in Michigan?
Yes. Homeschooling is legal in Michigan. Michigan is considered one of the easiest states for homeschoolers — minimal regulation, no notice required, and maximum family freedom.
Do I need to file a Notice of Intent to homeschool in Michigan?
No. Michigan does not require families to file a Notice of Intent before beginning homeschooling. You may start at any time.
How many instruction days are required in Michigan?
Michigan does not mandate a minimum amount of instruction time.
What subjects are required by law in Michigan?
Michigan requires instruction in the following subjects: Reading, Spelling, Mathematics, Science, History, Civics, Literature, Writing, English Grammar.
Does Michigan require annual assessment for homeschoolers?
No. Michigan does not require formal annual assessment. Families may voluntarily track progress for college application purposes.
Do I need a teaching certificate to homeschool in Michigan?
No. Michigan does not require parents to hold a teaching certificate or any specific educational credential to homeschool their children.
Can homeschoolers participate in public school sports in Michigan?
Rules about homeschooled students taking part in public school sports and activities differ by state and by district. Check with your local school district and your state athletic association.
Under the home school exemption (MCL 380.1561(3)(f)), Michigan requires no notice, reporting, testing or teacher credentials; you must provide an organized educational program in nine listed subjects. The nonpublic school pathway adds an annual report to the Department of Education. Compulsory attendance runs from age 6 to 18 for most children, with exceptions (MCL 380.1561).
The free tools below work whether or not you ever pay us a penny; each tile says what it needs. Use what helps with Michigan's requirements and ignore the rest.
Last checked in March 2026. Laws change between checks, so confirm anything you are about to file with Local and intermediate school districts enforce the attendance law; Michigan Department of Education Nonpublic and Home School Office (information). This is information for families, not legal advice.