← Back to all states
🌽

Illinois

Easy

Homeschool legal: ✅ Yes ·Last verified: 2026-03 ·State code: IL

Overview

Instruction days
No minimum requirement
Legal status
Homeschooling is legal in this state
Regulatory body
Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)
Official website
https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Homeschooling.aspx

Notice Requirements

Notice required
No notice required
Frequency
No filing required
Reporting
No reporting required

Assessment Requirements

Assessment required
No — assessment is optional

Curriculum & Qualifications

Required subjects
Language Arts (in English)MathematicsBiological and Physical ScienceSocial Science (Social Studies)Fine ArtsPhysical Development and Health
Teacher qualifications
No specific teaching credentials required
Portfolio
No portfolio requirement

Additional Notes

Illinois is among the least regulated states for homeschooling in the U.S. Homeschools operate as private schools under 105 ILCS 5/26-1 with no registration, no testing, no reporting, and no credential requirements. Instruction must be in English and cover the six subject areas taught at the equivalent public school grade level. No minimum days or hours are specified.

Tips for Homeschooling in Illinois

  1. 1

    Illinois does not require advance notice to begin homeschooling — you can start whenever you're ready.

  2. 2

    No formal assessment is required in Illinois. Consider voluntary portfolio tracking to document your child's progress for college applications.

  3. 3

    Join a local Illinois homeschool co-op or support group. Peer connections help with curriculum sharing, field trips, and social opportunities for your learner.

Open Illinois Checklist →

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulations. Always verify requirements directly with Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) or a qualified education attorney.