Homeschooling in South Carolina

Regulation: Low-Moderate

Three legal paths with varying requirements. Most families choose the association option.

South Carolina offers three homeschool paths. The requirements differ significantly between them.

Option 1: School District

Supervised by your local school district. Most regulated option.

How to start: Apply to your local school district for approval.
Parent qualifications: High school diploma required.
Required subjects: State-required subjects including English, math, science, social studies.
Testing: Annual standardized testing required.

Legal reference: SC Code §59-65-40

Option 2: SCAIHS or Other Approved Association

Join an approved homeschool association. Popular, flexible option.

How to start: Join SCAIHS (South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools) or another approved association.
Parent qualifications: High school diploma required.
Required subjects: English, math, science, social studies — per association requirements.
Testing: Annual portfolio review or standardized test per association.

Legal reference: SC Code §59-65-45

Option 3: Third Option Schools

Join a church-based school or other approved third-option school.

How to start: Enroll in an approved third-option school.
Required subjects: Per school requirements.
Testing: Per school requirements.

Legal reference: SC Code §59-65-47

Option 1 — School district: The most regulated path. Requires district approval and annual standardized testing. Few families choose this option.

Option 2 — Approved association: Join SCAIHS or another SC-approved homeschool association. The most popular path — associations provide community, oversight, and significant flexibility in curriculum choice.

Option 3 — Third-option schools: Church-based schools and other approved organizations offer a third path. Requirements vary by school.

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Last reviewed: 2026-01