For Northshore Families

Getting Started with Homeschooling

Everything you need to legally homeschool in Louisiana — from filing paperwork to preparing for college.

Step 1: Choose Your Legal Pathway

Louisiana offers two legal options for homeschooling. Most families in St. Tammany use the BESE Home Study program.

BESE Home Study Program

Register with BESE (Board of Elementary and Secondary Education). Submit application within 15 days of starting. Renew annually. No curriculum approval required.

  1. Complete the BESE Home Study Application online or by mail.
  2. Submit within 15 calendar days of beginning your home study program.
  3. Renew your application each year by the anniversary date.
  4. Maintain attendance records (180 days of instruction per year).
  5. Keep records of courses taught and materials used.

State-Approved Nonpublic School

Apply through the Louisiana Department of Education for nonpublic school approval. More structure, but offers an accredited diploma path.

  1. Apply to the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
  2. Comply with the approved curriculum and instruction requirements.
  3. Submit required reports and documentation annually.
  4. Students may earn an accredited diploma through this path.

Step 2: Record-Keeping Essentials

Attendance Log

Louisiana requires 180 days of instruction per year. Keep a simple calendar or log.

Course Records

Document subjects taught each year: English, math, science, social studies, and any electives.

Portfolio / Work Samples

Not legally required, but strongly recommended. Collect representative work samples from each subject per semester.

Standardized Testing

BESE home study students are not required to test, but testing helps track progress and is needed for many college applications.

Public School Sports Access

  • Louisiana law (R.S. 17:236.1) allows home study students to participate in interscholastic athletics at their zoned public school.
  • Students must meet the same academic, age, and eligibility requirements as enrolled students.
  • Register with the school during the sport's eligibility window — usually before the season starts.
  • Contact your zoned school's athletic director for specific tryout and registration dates.

College Preparation

Transcript Building

Create a parent-issued transcript listing courses, grades, and credits. Many colleges accept these alongside test scores.

ACT / SAT Registration

Register directly with ACT or College Board. Louisiana students can take the ACT free through the school-day testing program (contact your local school district).

Dual Enrollment

Louisiana homeschool students can dual-enroll at community colleges and universities. Check with Southeastern Louisiana University, Northshore Technical Community College, and others for eligibility.

TOPS Scholarship

Homeschooled students are eligible for Louisiana TOPS. Requirements: minimum ACT score, specific core curriculum, and GPA. Plan early — see the LOSFA website for details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a teaching certificate?

No. Louisiana does not require homeschool parents to have a teaching degree or certification.

Do I have to use a specific curriculum?

No. Under the BESE home study program, you choose your own curriculum. The nonpublic school path has more structure.

Is standardized testing required?

Not for BESE home study students. However, testing is recommended for tracking progress and is required for many college admissions and scholarship programs.

Can my student go back to public school?

Yes. Contact the school to discuss credit evaluation and grade placement. Bring your records and any test scores.

How do I get a diploma?

BESE home study families issue their own diploma. The nonpublic school path can provide an accredited diploma. Colleges typically accept either with supporting documentation.

Where can I find local support groups?

Check our Group Directory for co-ops, support groups, and community organizations across St. Tammany Parish.

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