Homeschooling in Louisiana
Choose between State-Approved or Private School Status
In Louisiana, you must choose between two distinct legal categories: a BESE-Approved Home Study Program or a Registered Nonpublic School (not seeking state approval). Your choice depends largely on whether you want state-recognized diplomas and scholarship eligibility (TOPS) or minimal government interference.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
4
required
Notification
Yes
annual
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Two clearly defined legal options
- BESE-Approved option preserves TOPS scholarship eligibility
- Nonpublic School option has minimal reporting
- Compulsory attendance starts at age 5
Legal Framework
Louisiana homeschooling is governed by R.S. 17:236. Parents can comply with compulsory attendance laws by operating a home study program approved by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) or by operating a registered nonpublic school.
Required Subjects
Curriculum must be of a quality at least equal to that offered by public schools.
English
Math
Science
Social Studies
Filing Requirements
What to file
Home Study Application (BESE-Approved)
When
Within 15 days of withdrawal or before starting
Where
Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE)
How to submit
Online portal
What to include
- • Application form
- • Statement of intent
**CRITICAL for TOPS Scholarship eligibility**: BESE-Approved is the ONLY option that maintains TOPS eligibility. Annual renewal requires ONE of: portfolio, standardized test scores (at grade level), OR certified teacher statement. Sports access (Tim Tebow Bill) only for BESE-Approved students.
Testing Requirements
Required: Yes
Frequency: Annually
Grades: All
For annual renewal, you must provide ONE of the following: standardized test scores (at or above grade level), a portfolio of work, or a statement from a certified teacher.
How to Get Started
- 1
Apply for Approval
Submit an application to the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE). This can be done online or via mail.
- •Complete the Home Study Application
- •Include a certified copy of the child's birth certificate (initial application only)
- •Submit within 15 days of starting the program
Tip: Keep copies of all correspondence Online application is fasterWithin 15 days of starting; Renewal by Oct 1
- 2
Wait for Approval
You will receive an approval letter. Keep this safe as proof of your legal status.
- •Check your email/mail for the approval letter
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Eligibility for TOPS scholarships
- ✓Official state recognition
- ✓Easier re-entry into public school
Cons
- •Annual approval process
- •Must assume costs of testing or portfolio review
- •More paperwork
Sports & Activities
BESE-Approved students may be eligible to participate in public school sports with principal approval (Tim Tebow Bill). Nonpublic School students are generally not eligible.
Track Louisiana compliance with Starpath
Free portfolio and compliance tracker tailored to Louisiana's requirements. Log learning, track hours, and generate reports, all in one place.
Last updated: 2025-12-17 · LA homeschool law guide