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.
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)
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.
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Last updated: 2025-12-17 · TN homeschool law guide