Homeschooling in Iowa
Choose your path: Complete independence or public school partnership.
Iowa offers rigorous flexibility through two main pathways: **Competent Private Instruction (CPI)** and **Independent Private Instruction (IPI)**. Families can choose between state interaction (with benefits like dual enrollment) or complete independence.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
5
required
Notification
No
none
Key Requirements at a Glance
- IPI requires no reporting but limits access to services.
- CPI requires filing Form A annually by September 1.
- Dual enrollment is available for CPI students.
- Instruction must last for 148 days per year.
Legal Framework
Iowa Code Chapter 299A governs private instruction.
Required Subjects
Must instruct in these branches.
Mathematics
Reading
Language Arts
Science
Social Studies
Filing Requirements
**IPI (this option) requires NO notification**. For sports/dual enrollment access, use CPI option instead (Form A by Sept 1). 148 days instruction required. ESA funds (~$7,600) available for CPI students with additional testing requirements.
Testing Requirements
Required: No
Frequency: N/A
Grades: N/A
None required.
How to Get Started
- 1
Start Teaching
Begin instruction in core branches.
- •Ensure you cover Math, Reading, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies.
Immediately
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓No paperwork
- ✓No testing
- ✓Total privacy
Cons
- •No access to dual enrollment
- •No special education services
Sports & Activities
Access is guaranteed *only* for CPI students (Dual Enrolled). IPI students generally cannot play.
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Last updated: 2025-12-17 · IA homeschool law guide