State Requirements

Iowa Homeschool Requirements

Iowa has moderate homeschool requirements. Families must homeschool for at least 148 days per year. You'll need to file notice with your local school district.

At a Glance

148 days/year

School days

Ages 6-16

Compulsory attendance

Notice Requirements

Notice is required

You must notify your local school district of your intent to homeschool.

Assessment Requirements

Assessment is required

Type: Parent's choice (testing, portfolio, or evaluation)

Frequency: Annually

Portfolio & Records

No portfolio required

While Iowa doesn't mandate a portfolio, keeping records is still recommended.

Required Subjects

Iowa requires instruction in the following subjects:

reading language arts math science social studies

Additional Notes

CPI filing required. Annual assessment via standardized test or portfolio review.

Source: Official state requirements · Verified March 2026

Track IA Compliance

Homeschool Fox automatically tracks your hours and progress against Iowa's requirements.

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What we track for IA

Attendance days toward 148-day goal
Subject coverage tracking
Activity log with descriptions
PDF exports for evaluators

Nearby States

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Frequently Asked Questions About Homeschooling in Iowa

Do I need to notify anyone to homeschool in Iowa?

Yes, Iowa requires you to file notice of your intent to homeschool. You must notify your local school district.

How many hours do I need to homeschool in Iowa?

Iowa doesn't specify a minimum number of hours, but requires at least 148 days of instruction per year.

Does Iowa require testing for homeschoolers?

Yes, Iowa requires some form of assessment for homeschooled students. Parents can choose between standardized testing, portfolio review, or professional evaluation.

Do I need to keep a portfolio in Iowa?

No, Iowa does not legally require you to maintain a portfolio. However, keeping records of your homeschool activities is still highly recommended for your own reference and for potential college applications or if you ever need to demonstrate educational progress.

What subjects must I teach in Iowa?

Iowa requires instruction in the following subjects: reading, language arts, math, science, and social studies. Beyond these requirements, you have flexibility to add subjects that interest your family.