Homeschooling in Michigan
Low Regulation, High Freedom
Michigan offers two paths: homeschooling under the statutory exemption (most popular) or organizing as a nonpublic school. The exemption option is incredibly flexible, requiring only that you teach specific subjects in an organized way.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
10
required
Notification
No
none
Key Requirements at a Glance
- No notification required for Exemption option
- Compulsory attendance ages 6-18
- Must teach Reading, Spelling, Math, Science, History, Civics, Literature, Writing, and Grammar
- No standardized testing mandated
Legal Framework
Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 380.1561(3)(f) provides the exemption for children being educated at home in an organized educational program.
Required Subjects
Instruction must be organized.
Reading
Spelling
Mathematics
Science
History
Civics
Literature
Writing
English Grammar
US and Michigan Constitutions (High School)
Filing Requirements
**NO notification required** for this option (Exemption/Option F). Simply educate at home with 9 required subjects. If withdrawing from public school, send a courtesy withdrawal letter. For Auxiliary Services/sports, consider Nonpublic School Option A instead (requires bachelor's degree or religious exemption + annual filing).
Testing Requirements
Required: No
Frequency: N/A
Grades: N/A
None required.
How to Get Started
- 1
Develop a Curriculum Plan
Select curriculum that covers the required subjects: Reading, Spelling, Mathematics, Science, History, Civics, Literature, Writing, and English Grammar.
- •Ensure all 9 required subjects are covered
Tip: You do not need to submit this plan to anyone. - 2
Withdraw from Public School
If your child is currently enrolled, formally withdraw them to avoid truancy issues.
- •Send a withdrawal letter to the school principal
- •State that you are homeschooling under MCL 380.1561(3)(f)
Before stopping attendance
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Zero reporting required
- ✓No testing
- ✓Complete privacy
Cons
- •Burden of proof is on parent if challenged (rare)
- •No official state diploma (parent-issued only)
Sports & Activities
**Discretionary**. Access is up to the local district (MHSAA rules apply). Being a "Nonpublic School" might help but doesn't guarantee access.
Track Michigan compliance with Starpath
Free portfolio and compliance tracker tailored to Michigan's requirements. Log learning, track hours, and generate reports, all in one place.
Last updated: 2025-12-17 · MI homeschool law guide