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.
Waldorf schools and kindergartens in Louisiana
The Waldorf Map lists 1 school in Louisiana, with phone numbers, websites and a map. If you are homeschooling, many run parent-and-child groups, open mornings and fairs that families outside the school are welcome at.
- Waldorf School of New Orleans, New Orleans
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.
Questions about homeschooling in Louisiana
What is TOPS and why does it matter?
TOPS (Taylor Opportunity Program for Students) is a state scholarship program that pays for tuition at Louisiana public colleges. Only the BESE-Approved Home Study option qualifies students for TOPS.
Can I switch options?
Yes. You can switch, but be aware that years spent in the 'Registered Nonpublic School' option do not count toward the 2-year requirement for TOPS eligibility.
Do I have to test my child?
Only if you are in the BESE-Approved Home Study program and choose testing as your method of proving progress. Registered Nonpublic Schools do not require testing.
Get Louisiana’s homeschool checklist, and hear by email when our Louisiana page changes
Leave your email and you’ll get the checklist link straight away. You’ll also be on the list for Louisiana deadline reminders and news when our Louisiana page changes. You can stop the emails any time.
Learning at home?
Starpath’s Waldorf-inspired lessons cover grades 1 to 3, and grade 4 is being added. Sophie, a Waldorf class teacher, wrote the stories, verses and activities for each day. 14 days for $7, then $47 a month. Cancel before the trial ends and you aren't charged again.
Free Louisiana paperwork tools
Generate your Louisiana notice of intent letter in two minutes, and get an email before every filing deadline. Free, no account needed, works with any curriculum.
Want the whole year handled? See Starpath Records
Read more
Last updated: 2025-12-17 · LA homeschool law guide