Homeschooling in Tennessee
Umbrella School vs Independent
You have three main options: Independent Homeschool (Option 1), Church-Related Umbrella School (Option 2), or Accredited Online School (Option 3). Option 2 is the most popular choice.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
0
required
Notification
Yes
Enroll once, then annual membership
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Choose between Independent or Umbrella School
- Independent: Register with district, Test in grades 5, 7, 9
- Umbrella School: Register with private school, comply with their rules (usually no state testing)
- Teach 180 days (4 hours/day)
- Parent must have HS Diploma/GED
Legal Framework
Tennessee Code Annotated 49-6-3050.
Waldorf schools and kindergartens in Tennessee
The Waldorf Map lists 1 school and 1 kindergarten in Tennessee, 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.
- Linden Waldorf School, Nashville
- Seedkeepers Forest School, Jonesborough
Filing Requirements
What to file
Umbrella School Enrollment (Category IV)
When
Enroll before withdrawing from public school
Where
Church-Related Umbrella School (Category IV)
How to submit
Enroll with chosen umbrella school
What to include
- • Student info
- • Proof of HS diploma/GED (usually)
**Most popular option**. Report to umbrella school, NOT the state. NO state TCAP testing (umbrella sets policy). 180 days, HS diploma required. Umbrella maintains transcripts. Immunization records usually required by umbrella. **Sports**: Can play for umbrella (if they have teams) or public school (with Cooperative Agreement). **IESA** available for special needs.
Testing Requirements
Required: No
Frequency: N/A
Grades: N/A
Usually none, but depends on the school.
How to Get Started
- 1
Enroll in Umbrella School
Find a church-related school that accepts homeschoolers and enroll.
- •Pay tuition/fees
- •Submit grades/attendance to them
Tip: This exempts you from registering with the local district (usually). - 2
Withdraw from Public School
Provide proof of enrollment in the Umbrella School to your previous school.
- •Send withdrawal letter with proof of new enrollment
Before school starts
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓No state testing
- ✓Private oversight
- ✓School maintains permanent records (transcripts)
Cons
- •Cost (tuition fees vary)
Help with the cost in Tennessee
| Program | Amount | Who qualifies | Official site |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individualized Education Savings Account (IESA)ESA (Special Needs)Available for special needs students. Contact TN Dept of Education for details. | Varies | Students with qualifying disabilities. | tn.gov/education |
| Education Freedom Scholarship (ESA)ESAWARNING: ESA participation may bring additional state oversight and regulations. Research carefully before applying. | Varies (2025 expansion) | Expanding eligibility in 2025. Check current rules. | tn.gov/education |
Amounts as this guide lists them, last reviewed 2025-12-17. The official site has this year's figure.
Homeschool Funding by US State in 2026: ESAs, Tax Credits, and Charter Programs
Sports & Activities
**Complex / Depends on Option**. **Independent Homeschool (Option 1)**: Access is **guaranteed** if academic requirements are met (TSSAA eligibility). **Umbrella School (Option 2)**: Can play for the Umbrella school (if they have a team) OR public school IF a 'Cooperative Agreement' exists between the school and district.
Questions about homeschooling in Tennessee
Can I switch from Independent to Umbrella mid-year?
Yes. Enroll in the umbrella school first, then notify the district you are transferring.
Do I have to take the TCAP test?
Only if you are registered as an Independent Homeschooler (Option 1) in grades 5, 7, or 9. Umbrella school students are usually exempt.
Can my child play sports?
Yes. Tennessee has a 'Tebow Law' allowing homeschoolers to try out for public school sports (fees and insurance requirements apply).
Get Tennessee’s homeschool checklist, and hear by email when our Tennessee page changes
Leave your email and you’ll get the checklist link straight away. You’ll also be on the list for Tennessee deadline reminders and news when our Tennessee 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 Tennessee paperwork tools
Generate your Tennessee 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 · TN homeschool law guide