Homeschooling in South Dakota
Alternative Instruction
South Dakota calls homeschooling 'Alternative Instruction'. The laws were significantly relaxed in 2021, removing the testing requirement. Now, you essentially just notify the state once.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
2
required
Notification
Yes
one-time
Key Requirements at a Glance
- File 'Alternative Instruction Notification' within 30 days of starting
- Notification is valid until your child completes high school or moves districts
- No standardized testing required (repealed in 2021)
- Must instruct in Language Arts and Math
- No logs or portfolios required by the state
Legal Framework
South Dakota Codified Laws 13-27-3.
Required Subjects
Goal is mastery of English language.
Language Arts
Mathematics
Filing Requirements
What to file
Notification of Alternative Instruction
When
Within 30 days of starting (or within 30 days of moving or transitioning from public school)
Where
South Dakota Department of Education (or local district)
How to submit
Submit form to DOE or district
What to include
- • Intent to homeschool
- • Student info
**Testing removed July 1, 2021**. One-time filing only - do NOT re-file annually. Only 2 required subjects: Language Arts and Mathematics. No duration mandate. Re-file if you change districts. Sports access is discretionary via SDHSAA.
Testing Requirements
Required: No
Frequency: N/A
Grades: N/A
Repealed July 1, 2021.
How to Get Started
- 1
File Notification
Submit the Alternative Instruction Notification to the Department of Education (or local district).
- •Complete online form or paper application
Tip: Online filing is recommended for immediate confirmation.Within 30 days of starting
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Extremely low regulation
- ✓One-time paperwork
- ✓No testing
Cons
- •Lack of paper trail can make transfer to public school tricky (placement tests usually required)
Sports & Activities
**Discretionary**. State law does **not guarantee** access. It depends on district policy and SDHSAA rules.
Keep your South Dakota records in order
Starpath Records tracks attendance, hours, and work samples, and turns them into the reports the rules expect. Works with any curriculum. South Dakota tools are on the way; join the list and be first in.
Last updated: 2025-12-17 · SD homeschool law guide