Homeschooling in Illinois? Here’s your plan.

Illinois treats your home as a private school under 105 ILCS 5/26-1. This means the same freedoms that apply to any private school in Illinois apply to you. The state does not require registration, curriculum review, standardized testing, minimum hours, or progress reports. You teach in English, you cover the branches of education taught in public schools, and that is the extent of the legal requirement.

The "branches of education" language covers six subject areas per ISBE guidance and 105 ILCS 5/27-1: language arts, mathematics, science, social science, fine arts, and physical development and health. The state does not define specific courses or grade-level expectations. You have full discretion over curriculum, schedule, and teaching methods.

While no withdrawal letter is legally required, sending one to your child's school prevents truancy referrals. A brief letter stating that your child is transferring to a private school is sufficient. Keep a copy for your records.

Records for college. Illinois does not require recordkeeping, but colleges and the military do. Keep a transcript, course descriptions, and a reading list from the start. Parent-issued diplomas are recognized, and most Illinois colleges and universities have homeschool admissions policies.

Umbrella schools. Illinois has several umbrella school organizations that provide transcript services, standardized testing, and community. Enrollment is voluntary and does not change your legal status — you remain a private school whether or not you join an umbrella.

Sports and extracurriculars. The IHSA (Illinois High School Association) requires full-time enrollment for athletic eligibility. Homeschool students do not currently have access to public school sports. Some families join homeschool athletic leagues or private school teams.

Dual enrollment. Under 105 ILCS 5/10-20.24, homeschooled students may attend their local public school part-time if the request is submitted by May 1, space is available, and the child lives in the attendance zone. Driver's education must also be provided to eligible homeschooled students (105 ILCS 5/27-24.2). Many Illinois community colleges also accept homeschool students — contact admissions directly.

IEP and special needs. A full IEP ends when you withdraw from public school, but you have options. Under 105 ILCS 5/14-6.01, your child can attend public school part-time for at least one subject and receive IEP services while in attendance. Additionally, homeschooled students may qualify for limited equitable services through the district's proportionate share funding. Contact your district's special education department to discuss both paths. Illinois does not have an ESA or scholarship program for homeschoolers.

The Levisen advantage. If you ever face pushback from a school or district, the Levisen ruling is your primary legal reference. It is over 70 years old and has never been overturned. The law is clear and well-settled in Illinois.