Homeschooling in New Jersey? Start with the requirements below.

New Jersey's homeschool framework comes from one phrase in the compulsory education law, N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25: children between ages 6 and 16 must attend school or "receive equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school." The statute does not set subjects, hours, days, or recordkeeping for home instruction. The NJDOE Homeschooling FAQ explains that, under State v. Massa (1967), parents need to show only that the instruction is academically equivalent to that provided in the local public school. A parent or other person teaching the child is not required by law to be a certified teacher.

The local board of education is not required or authorized to review or approve your curriculum, or to test or monitor your child's outcomes. The board does enforce the compulsory education law. If it has credible evidence that a child is not being educated, it may request documentation such as a letter of intent. According to NJDOE, the mere fact that a child was withdrawn to be homeschooled is not, by itself, credible evidence of a violation.

NJDOE describes two situations where you must inform the district: when removing an enrolled student from a high school program (you complete a transfer form), and when a district refuses to enroll a student and you do not appeal (you provide a statement of verification under N.J.A.C. 6A:22-4.2(d)). In other situations, NJDOE encourages you to notify the local board of education so questions do not arise.

Withdrawal. If your child is enrolled, a letter to the local board of education stating that your child will receive equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school is recommended. If your child is in high school, NJDOE says you will be required to complete the district's transfer form. Keep a copy of everything you send.

Records for college. New Jersey law does not require attendance logs, grade records, or a portfolio, so it is up to you to create the records your child will need for college or employment. Start a transcript early, listing courses, grades, and credits.

Dual enrollment. There is no statewide right to dual enrollment for homeschool students. Contact colleges directly to ask about their policies for homeschool students.

Sports and activities. NJDOE says the local board of education is not required to allow homeschooled students to join classes, extracurriculars, or sports. Participation is at the board's discretion.

IEP and special needs. Under federal special education law, your district must identify and evaluate children with disabilities who live in the district, including homeschooled children. Ask your district what services are available to children educated elsewhere than at school.

High school credentials. New Jersey has no state homeschool diploma. Parent-issued diplomas are recognized, and students may take the GED or HiSET for a state-recognized equivalency credential.