Quick Guide: Homeschool Students in Public Sports

Socialization — it doesn't come easy for homeschooling families, and some states make it harder than others to achieve. Traditionally, public and high school sports offer a seamless introduction to teamwork, relationship building and fitness; but for homeschooled students, a legal or political gatekeeper may stand in the way. You want the same opportunities for your kids as your neighbors, so how does your homeschooling family gain access and provide a positive pathway for optimal performance in college and career?

Here is a breakdown of state laws regarding homeschool participation in public school sports. Scan the infographic below for a quick checklist. If your state mandates special eligibility rules, keep scrolling for the details.

Special Requirements for Homeschoolers

The following states allow homeschool students to participate in public school sports if eligibility requirements are met. You may have to get permission from the school and/or enroll at least part time to participate.

Alaska

Only allows participation from “alternative education programs” or “accredited homeschools” if they meet certain requirements. (§ 14.30.365)

Arkansas

Allows homeschool participation if the local school district approves and if they meet basic testing requirements and deadlines. With district approval, the school is required to comply but may enforce attendance of one period per week.

Georgia 

No statewide law. Individual districts and schools make the decision regarding homeschool participation in public school sports.

Hawaii 

No statewide law. Individual districts and schools make the decision regarding homeschool participation in public school sports.

Idaho

Must show test results or portfolio of work to establish grade level. Attendance in class on campus is not required, but dual enrollment at the school is. (Idaho Code § 33-203(4) and (9))

Illinois

Homeschoolers can enroll part-time in public school to enroll in sports, though local schools have the right to make the ultimate decision. The member school may require the student complete a minimum number of credits and meet standard residency and academic eligibility to participate. (105 Illinois Compiled Statutes 5/10-20.24)

Indiana

Homeschooled students must meet certain requirements to participate in public school sports. Students must be enrolled in and passing at least 70 percent of classes available through their homeschool curriculum; they must have been enrolled in their nonpublic school for the last three consecutive years; and they are required to attend at least one class equaling one credit at the member public school. Homeschoolers must also pass any statewide exams. (Rule 18:1)

Iowa 

Homeschool students who do not choose Independent Private Instruction of Private Instruction may dual enroll in public school for eligibility in interscholastic activities including sports.

Kansas

Without a statewide policy, individual districts and schools determine eligibility.

Kentucky 

No statewide law. Individual districts and schools make the decision regarding homeschool participation in public school sports. 

Louisiana

Homeschool students may participate in interscholastic activities with the principal's approval and if they meet the same academic eligibility requirements as traditional students. The nonpublic transcript must reflect progress, grades and credits earned.

Maine

Superintendent's approval is required for homeschoolers to participate in cocurricular activities, but approval is not required to try out for extracurricular activities contingent on academic and behavioral eligibility. (Maine Revised Statutes Annotated tit. 20-A, § 5021)

Michigan

Must be enrolled in at least 66 percent of full credit load to participate in extracurricular activities.

Missouri

Must enroll part-time and meet academic eligibility set by the member public school. (Missouri State High School Athletic Association By-law 2.3.4.c)

Nebraska

Homeschooled students must be enrolled in at least 10 credit hours per semester to participate. (Bylaw 2.5 of the Nebraska School Activities Association)

New Jersey

Students may be allowed to participate with permission from local school board and principal if the student resides in the district, meets academic standards set by the school, and adheres to team policies. However, public schools in New Jersey rarely allow homeschool participation.

North Carolina

No statewide law. Individual districts and schools make the decision regarding homeschool participation in public school sports.

South Dakota

Requires approval from school board. (South Dakota Codified Laws § 13-36)

Tennessee

Requires filing a notice of intent. (Tennessee Code Annotated § 49-6- 3050(b))

Texas

Individual schools and districts make decisions about homeschool participation in the absence of a statewide policy.

Virginia

Can participate with school board approval.

Fortunately, in most states, homeschoolers are able to participate in public school sports. Make sure to examine your state's academic, residency and institutional policies before applying. College and career readiness includes participation in athletics and other extracurricular activities. Give your student the competitive edge on their college application by enrolling them today.