Homeschooling in El Salvador
Homeschooling lacks legal recognition; use proficiency exams for system entry.
Homeschooling is not a recognized modality of the education system in El Salvador and is considered illegal for formal education fulfillment. The Ley General de Educación (Decreto 917) mandates formal education in authorized establishments for ages 7-15. Parents retain a right to choose education, but practical options involve non-formal education or proficiency tests via the Ministry of Education.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
0
required
Notification
No
n/a
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Formal education occurs in authorized establishments with progressive curricula (Article 9).
- Non-Formal Education supplements knowledge without formal levels or grades (Article 10).
- Access to formal levels open via evaluation for non-formal or informal learners (Article 11).
- Self-educated persons may request proficiency tests from MINED (Article 63).
- Parents have right to choose their children's education (Article 92).
- Homeschooling not recognized as a modality by MINED.
- Compulsory schooling from 7 to 15 years.
Legal Framework
Constitution of the Republic of El Salvador Articles 53-61. Legislative Decree 917 of December 12, 1996 (General Education Law), published in Official Gazette 242, Volume 333, of December 21, 1996, with subsequent reforms. The General Education Law establishes: (1) compulsory and free Preschool and Basic Education; (2) free Special Education; (3) Adult Education as a modality for people above compulsory school age, including Distance Education at Basic and General Middle levels. The Distance Education modality is NOT available for minors of compulsory school age. Responsible authority: Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MINED).
Filing Requirements
What to file
n/a
When
n/a
Where
n/a
How to submit
n/a
What to include
- • n/a
No notification process for homeschooling as it is not recognized.
How to Get Started
- 1
Contact MINED to request proficiency tests.
- 2
Prepare student for level-appropriate exams.
- 3
Pass tests to accredit incorporation into formal system.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Path to official credentials
- ✓Recognizes self-learning
Cons
- •No substitute for compulsory schooling
- •High regulation for formal entry
Questions about homeschooling in El Salvador
Is homeschooling legal in El Salvador?
No, homeschooling is not a recognized modality; formal education for ages 7-15 must occur in authorized establishments per Ley General de Educación.
What options exist for self-educated children?
Self-educated persons can request proficiency tests from MINED (Article 63) to enter formal levels.
Can parents choose homeschooling under Article 92?
Article 92 affirms parental choice, but it does not override compulsory formal education requirements in authorized schools.
How do expats homeschool?
Expats often use foreign accredited online programs or umbrella schools, keeping records outside the system; not officially recognized for locals.
What is Non-Formal Education?
It supplements knowledge without formal grades (Article 10); access formal levels via MINED evaluation (Article 11).
Are there penalties for not sending kids to school?
Compulsory ages 7-15; non-compliance risks truancy enforcement as formal attendance is mandated.
Can I get a diploma through homeschooling?
No parent-issued diplomas; use MINED proficiency tests for accreditation.
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Last updated: 2026-05-06 · SV homeschool law guide