Homeschooling in Nebraska? Here’s your plan.

Homeschooling in Nebraska operates under the "exempt school" framework, governed by Neb. Rev. Stat. Sections 79-1601 through 79-1607 and Rule 13. You file a Statement of Election with the Nebraska Department of Education by August 1 each year (or within 30 days if starting mid-year). The required subjects are language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and health. Instructional hours are 1,032 for elementary students and 1,080 for secondary students. Beyond the annual filing, Nebraska requires nothing more — no progress reports, no test scores, no attendance records, and no site visits.

The filing goes directly to the NDE, not your local school district. First-time filers need to include a certified copy of the child's birth certificate (a one-time requirement). The NDE sends an acknowledgment of receipt, and you are set. You have complete flexibility in scheduling — year-round schooling, four-day weeks, or any other arrangement that meets the hour requirements.

Nebraska does not currently have an ESA or school voucher program, though school choice legislation is actively evolving. There are no umbrella schools recognized by statute.

Nearly all Nebraska homeschool families use the exempt school pathway under Rule 13. The alternative — operating as an approved or accredited private school under Rule 10 — requires certified teachers, state-approved curriculum, standardized testing, and NDE oversight. Rule 10 is designed for established private school operations and is not practical for individual families teaching at home.

File by August 1. Your Statement of Election is due to the NDE by August 1 each year. If you are starting mid-year, file within 30 days. First-year filers also need a certified copy of the child's birth certificate.

Withdrawal letter. Notify your child's school in writing that the child is being withdrawn to attend an exempt school, and file your Statement of Election with the NDE. The school cannot deny or delay the withdrawal once both steps are complete.

Keep records even though you do not have to. Nebraska does not require you to submit records, but maintaining attendance logs, curriculum records, and work samples protects you and makes college applications easier.

College admissions. Nebraska public universities (UNL, UNO, UNK) accept homeschool applicants. Typically you will need a parent-prepared transcript and ACT/SAT scores, and some institutions may ask for a portfolio or course descriptions.

Extracurriculars. Nebraska does not have a statewide law guaranteeing homeschool students access to public school sports or activities. NSAA rules generally make exempt school students ineligible. Legislative proposals have been introduced but not enacted.

IEP considerations. Nebraska does not require districts to provide special education services to homeschooled students. Your district must evaluate your child under Child Find if you suspect a disability, but you will generally need to arrange services through private providers, Medicaid, or insurance.

Immunizations. Nebraska requires immunization records for exempt school students. Religious exemptions are available, but philosophical or conscientious exemptions are not.