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Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Indiana

This is general guidance based on Indiana law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.

Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Indiana. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.

What happens to your child's services

Indiana does not allow dual enrollment solely for special education services, and your child's IEP ends upon withdrawal. However, the Indiana ESA program provides up to $20,000 for students with disabilities, covering therapies and educational services. Your district must still evaluate your child through Child Find.

Homeschooled students not entitled to an IEP. Under IDEA proportionate share, limited equitable services may be available.

Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144

How to access services while homeschooling

Child Find

District must locate and evaluate children suspected of having disabilities, including homeschooled children.

How to request: Contact your local school district's special education office to request an evaluation.

IC 20-35

Equitable services

Limited proportionate share services available at district discretion.

How to request: Contact your local school district to inquire about available proportionate share services.

IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144

Dual enrollment

Not available solely for special education services.

Therapy access

Speech therapy:
Through proportionate share at district discretion; also through Indiana ESA
Occupational therapy:
Through Indiana ESA program
Behavioral therapy:
Through Indiana ESA program

Indiana ESA (IC 20-51.4) provides up to $20,000 for students with disabilities and up to $8,000 for siblings.

Before you withdraw

We recommend these steps for any family withdrawing a child with an IEP:

  1. 1

    Request complete copies of all IEP documents, evaluations, and progress reports before you withdraw.

  2. 2

    Consider requesting an IEP meeting to discuss the transition. This is optional but can provide valuable information.

  3. 3

    Your state does not require filing a notification to homeschool. You can begin homeschooling once you withdraw.

  4. 4

    Arrange any private therapies or services your child needs before withdrawal takes effect.

If you want to re-enroll

Homeschooling is not a one-way door. Your child can re-enroll in public school at any time.

Re-enrollment processes vary by state and district. Contact your local school to ask what evaluation or documentation they require. Keep copies of all IEP records. They will help the district determine placement and next steps.

Keep copies of all IEP documents, evaluations, and progress reports. You'll need these if you re-enroll.

Who to call

You don't have to navigate this alone. These organizations help families with special education questions.

COPAA

copaa.org · Find a special education attorney near you

Wrightslaw

wrightslaw.com · Special education law encyclopedia

Education savings available

Indiana offers Indiana Education Scholarship Account (ESA). ESA or scholarship programs may help fund private therapies and educational services. Learn about ESA programs

Common questions

Can I homeschool a child with an IEP in Indiana?
Yes. Parents in Indiana have the right to withdraw their child from public school regardless of disability status. No IEP team can block your withdrawal. However, the IEP itself typically does not transfer to the home setting. Run our free wizard to see exactly what services are available in Indiana.
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Indiana?
In most cases, the IEP, which is a contract between your family and the school district, ends when you withdraw. However, federal Child Find obligations still apply, meaning the district must evaluate your child if requested. Some states offer additional protections. Use our wizard to see Indiana's specific provisions.

Related guides

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Requirements sourced from IC 20-33-2-4 (Compulsory Attendance); IC 20-33-2-6 (Equivalency Exemption). Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026