Louisiana Homeschool Information
—Homeschool In Louisiana —
Homeschooling in Louisiana
Find Out What the State Says About Home Education
Louisiana Department of Education
Click above for the state Education Information.
Louisiana Homeschool
Here’s a refined breakdown of Louisiana’s homeschool (officially called “home study”) laws that every parent should be aware of:
🏡 Two Legal Paths
1. BESE‑Approved Home Study Program
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Must apply to the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) within 15 days of beginning homeschooling and renew annually—by October 1 or 12 months after approval (whichever is later)
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No specific teacher qualifications required; parents/tutors may instruct .
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Must offer a “sustained curriculum of quality at least equal to that offered by public schools” at the appropriate grade level
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Requires 180 days of instruction per year
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Annual proof of progress required: through a portfolio, standardized test (e.g., LEAP/CAT) with grade-level scores, or a statement from a certified teacher
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State testing (e.g., LEAP) is optional—parent must request by February; up to $35 fee
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Students qualify for public school athletic teams as of August 1, 2024, provided they reside in the school’s zone and meet academic/disciplinary criteria
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Home‑study diplomas are recognized with full legal weight—equivalent to nonpublic school diplomas
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Students can borrow state textbooks (returnable deposit may be required) .
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Immunization proof against meningococcal disease is required at ages 11 and 16 (or through waiver)
2. Nonpublic School “Home School” (Non‑Approved)
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Parents register as a nonpublic school: submit name, contact info, student count, by the 30th calendar day of the school term
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Offer at least 180 days of instruction
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No curriculum, testing, record‑keeping, or schoolwork requirements
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Must notify any public school within 10 days if a child is withdrawn mid‑year
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Keep immunization records for meningococcal disease for 11‑year‑olds
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Cannot access public extracurriculars or athletics
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Diplomas are privately issued and may not carry state seals or imply official BESE recognition
Louisiana K-12 School Choice
🆕 For New SCP Students
If your child has never participated in the School Choice Program before:
📝 How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
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Click here to apply (link placeholder – use actual link from LDOE)
You’ll need to:
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Provide proof of a current IEP or services plan
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Enter basic student and guardian info
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Submit proof of Louisiana residency
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List up to 3 preferred schools
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Agree to required statements and submit
🎯 Important Notes
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Continuing students get first priority for scholarships.
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New applicants go through a lottery process—eligibility does not guarantee a seat.
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You must reapply every year, whether you’re a new or returning family
Louisiana K-12 Choice/Scholarship Summary
🎓 Louisiana School Choice Program (SCP) – Simple Guide for Families
The School Choice Program for Certain Students with Exceptionalities helps families choose the best school for their child’s unique learning needs. If your child qualifies, the program offers tuition assistance of up to 50% of the state’s per-pupil funding.
✅ Who Can Apply?
To qualify, new students must:
- Be a Louisiana resident.
- Be eligible to attend public school (grades K–12).
- Be at least 5 years old by September 30 of the upcoming school year.
- Have a current IEP or district services plan.
- Be evaluated by a Louisiana public school with one of these exceptionalities:
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Autism
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Developmental Delay
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Mental Disability
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Other Health Impairment
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Specific Learning Disability
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Traumatic Brain Injury
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🔁 For Current SCP Students
✅ Want to Stay at the Same School?
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Action: Just submit the online application each year.
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No documents needed—you’re already eligible.
➕ Want to Add a Sibling?
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Action: Submit a new online application for each sibling.
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You must provide eligibility documents for each new child.
🔄 Want to Switch Schools?
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Action: Submit a new online application with your new school choices.
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No eligibility documents needed for returning students.
Homeschool Resources for Louisiana
Homeschooling has been part of education for centuries. In earlier times, it was simple to begin without worrying about rules or oversight. Today, however, homeschooling regulations vary by state, and some families may find it more challenging to get started. That’s why NFC Academy provides helpful state-specific pages outlining homeschool laws—to guide and support you as you begin your journey.
In areas with stricter requirements, having reliable support is important. Organizations like the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) offer valuable legal guidance and protection, helping families stay informed and confident. With the right tools and resources, homeschooling can be a rewarding and manageable experience, no matter where you live.
Homeschool Legal Defense Association
Information on this page is intended for informational purposes for homeschool families in the specific state. The information supplied does not, nor is it intended to, provide specific legal advice. For specific legal advice, we recommend you consult an attorney. Membership with Homeschool Legal Defense may provide legal information for your situation, but you may prefer a local private attorney to review your situation to provide specific legal advice.