Starting to homeschool in Iowa might feel like a big step, but the good news is: there’s more than one way to do it. The state gives you a few different legal options to choose from, each with its own level of paperwork, freedom, and support. That means you can really shape the experience around what works best for your child.
We’ll walk you through those choices so you can figure out what makes the most sense for your family. You’ll also find some helpful tips for staying on track, meeting the requirements, and making things run a little smoother day to day. If you're looking for ways to mix things up or get help with a tricky subject, Outschool has live, interactive classes that can work with any homeschool setup.
Homeschooling options in Iowa
Iowa law gives families five different ways to homeschool legally. Each path offers a unique mix of independence, oversight, and access to public school resources. Below is a breakdown of each homeschooling pathway in Iowa.
Independent Private Instruction (IPI)
IPI is one of Iowa’s more flexible homeschool options. There’s no required paperwork, testing, or regular oversight, but there are still a few strings attached. You’ll need to cover five core subjects, and your district or the Department of Education can request basic program info in writing.
Competent Private Instruction (CPI) with no reporting
This option, sometimes referred to as CPI with opt-out, lets families homeschool without filing Form A, discussed below, or submitting assessments. There’s no required curriculum, no paperwork to file, and no follow-ups from your local district. It doesn’t provide access to dual enrollment or Home School Assistance Programs (HSAPs), but it keeps state involvement to a minimum.
CPI with reporting and annual assessment
This path requires you to file Form A and complete an annual assessment, like a standardized test, portfolio review, or report card. In return, you can access dual enrollment and public school classes or activities. It’s a good balance of structure and flexibility.
CPI with reporting and parent-selected teacher supervision
You’ll file Form A and work with a licensed teacher of your choice, who checks in and reviews progress. This offers professional support while still giving you freedom at home, plus access to dual enrollment and public school resources.
CPI with reporting and HSAP-assigned teacher supervision
Available through your local district’s HSAP, this option provides a supervising teacher and extra structure. After filing Form A, you’ll get support, resources, and access to extracurriculars, if available in your area.
Requirements for homeschooling in Iowa
What you’ll need to do legally depends on which of Iowa’s five homeschooling pathways you choose. Some options require very little from you, while others need a bit more structure, like assessments or teacher oversight.
Enrollment paperwork
- For IPI: You don’t need to file anything unless your district superintendent sends you a written request. If that happens, you’ll just need to share a few basic details, like who’s teaching and who’s enrolled.
- For CPI with no reporting: No forms or assessments are required for this option. You can skip Form A entirely.
- For CPI with reporting (including HSAP enrollment, teacher supervision, or annual assessment): You’ll need to fill out and send in Form A to your local school district. Try to do this by September 1, or within 14 days if you're starting homeschool after withdrawing your child from school.
Just a heads-up: if you're using a CPI option that does require reporting and you forget to file Form A, it could lead to truancy issues, so it’s worth double-checking to make sure your child’s covered.
Attendance and instruction
The number of instructional days required depends on the homeschooling path you choose:
IPI
- No required number of instructional days or schedule
- No reporting unless requested in writing by the district superintendent
CPI with no reporting:
- No mandated minimum number of school days
- Parents are not obligated to track or report attendance
CPI with reporting:
- Instruction must occur on at least 148 days per year
- Instruction must be spread across at least 37 days each quarter
Teaching must be delivered by:
- A parent, guardian, or custodian, if using the annual assessment path without supervision (no license needed).
- A licensed Iowa teacher, if you're using:
- Parent-selected teacher supervision: You choose a licensed teacher who checks in with your child twice every 45 days, and one of those visits needs to be in person.
- HSAP-assigned teacher supervision: The district assigns a teacher who meets with your child four times every 45 days, with at least two of those meetings happening face-to-face. Your district might also have a few extra guidelines for how this supervision works.
Curriculum guidelines
Subject requirements also vary by pathway:
IPI and CPI with reporting and annual assessment:
Must include instruction in the following core subjects:
- Mathematics
- Reading and language arts
- Science
- Social studies
CPI with no reporting:
- No legally required subjects
- You have full freedom to choose your child’s curriculum and learning content
CPI with reporting and parent-selected teacher supervision:
- Your supervising licensed teacher may help shape the curriculum
- You'll usually cover core subjects, but the specific materials and topics can vary based on the teacher’s guidance
CPI with reporting and HSAP-assigned teacher supervision:
- The HSAP will offer curriculum support and suggestions
Subjects and resources may differ by district, but you'll generally focus on math, reading, science, and social studies
Recordkeeping
- Not required for IPI, but you can still choose to keep informal records like attendance logs, sample work, or progress notes to stay organized.
- Not required for CPI with no reporting, and there’s no expectation to maintain formal documentation under this option.
- Recommended for all other CPI options, especially if you’re doing annual assessments, working with a supervising teacher, or using dual enrollment.
Good records also help if your child re-enters the public or private school system later on.
Testing and assessments
Your evaluation requirements depend on the CPI path:
- Required for families using CPI with Reporting and Annual Assessment. You can show progress through:
- A Department-approved standardized test,
- A portfolio reviewed by a licensed Iowa teacher, or
- A report card from an accredited correspondence school.
- Optional under CPI with Teacher Supervision and CPI with No Reporting.
- Not required under IPI, though some parents still choose to test for their own peace of mind.
Diplomas and graduation
Iowa schools aren’t required to issue diplomas to homeschooled students, but that doesn’t mean your child can’t earn one. If a diploma is part of your long-term plan, it’s a good idea to connect with your local high school around eighth grade. They can walk you through what’s needed for credit tracking and graduation, so you’ll know what to expect well ahead of time.
Homeschool with Outschool
Keeping homeschool learning fresh can make a big difference, especially when you’re managing multiple subjects or juggling a busy schedule. Outschool helps make that possible with live, interactive classes taught by teachers who truly love what they do.
Here’s what makes Outschool a great fit for Iowa homeschoolers:
- A wide selection of subjects, from math and reading to art, coding, and beyond
- Live classes that encourage interaction, not just passive watching
- Flexible scheduling to fit around your family’s unique rhythm
- A chance for kids to connect with peers who share their interests
- Built-in class records and easy tracking to help with your homeschool portfolio
No matter which homeschooling pathway you choose in Iowa, Outschool gives you tools to keep learning fun, flexible, and aligned with your family’s goals.
How to get started
You’ve picked the path that works best for your family, now it’s time to get things rolling. Each option has its own starting steps, but with a bit of preparation, you’ll be ready to dive into learning at home with confidence.
Here’s an overview of what to do first, based on your chosen pathway:
If you’re using Independent Private Instruction (IPI):
- Teach the required subjects each year: math, reading, language arts, science, and social studies.
- There’s no required form to file unless your district superintendent or the Department of Education makes a written request.
- If requested, provide the following:
- Primary instructor’s name
- Name and location of the instruction program (typically your name and home address)
- Names of students enrolled
- You’re eligible for some public school services, such as parent-taught driver’s ed and free standardized testing, but not dual enrollment or extracurriculars.
If you’re using Competent Private Instruction (CPI) with no reporting (opt-out):
- Provide instruction using your own plan and curriculum in a nonpublic school setting.
- No need to file Form A or submit assessments.
- You can access:
- Driver’s ed (parent-taught or school-provided)
- Free public school testing
- To access dual enrollment or postsecondary courses, you’ll need to switch to another CPI option by submitting Form A.
If you’re using CPI with reporting and annual assessment:
- File Form A by September 1, or within 14 days of starting homeschooling mid-year.
- Include the student’s name and age, number of instructional days (at least 148), textbooks, and a general course outline.
- Submit proof of immunization or an exemption, if homeschooling for the first time.
- Choose and complete an annual assessment method:
- Standardized test (approved by the Department of Education)
- Teacher-reviewed portfolio
- Accredited program report card
- Assessments must be completed by May 31 and submitted by August 1.
- This option opens access to dual enrollment, extracurriculars, and more public school services.
If you’re using CPI with reporting and parent-selected teacher supervision:
- File Form A with the required details, just like the Assessment option.
- Hire a supervising teacher who holds an appropriate Iowa teaching license for your child’s grade level.
- Ensure your child receives instruction for at least 148 days per year, and 37 per quarter.
- The supervising teacher must check in twice every 45 days (at least once in person) and assess progress.
- Families under this option are eligible for dual enrollment, extracurriculars, and community college courses.
If you’re using CPI with reporting and Home School Assistance Program (HSAP):
- Contact your local public school district to see if they offer an HSAP.
- File Form A, including items 1, 3, and 5, along with immunization documentation or exemption.
- Teach for at least 148 instructional days per year and follow your district’s HSAP requirements.
- Follow any additional expectations set by the HSAP, which may include meetings, assessments, or the use of certain curricula.
- You’ll have access to dual enrollment, extracurriculars, public school driver’s ed, and more, with no additional reporting required beyond what the HSAP requests.
Find support through homeschool communities in Iowa
Homeschooling can feel more manageable (and fun!) when you’re connected to a supportive community. These statewide and local resources are great places to start if you’re looking to build a network or simply share the journey with other families.
Statewide organizations
Local groups and co-ops
- Iowa City Secular Homeschool Group: An inclusive, family-led group for the Iowa City area. Members organize free or low-cost learning and social activities in a supportive, nonreligious environment.
- EIH Eastern Iowa Homeschool Group: A casual space for homeschoolers and unschoolers in the Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport areas. The group focuses on encouragement, variety, and respect for different homeschooling styles.
- Secular Homeschool - Ames, Iowa: A place for Ames-area families to connect around secular homeschooling. Members share resources and organize events with a focus on inclusivity and support.
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. These groups are a great way to swap ideas, ask questions, and build friendships for you and your kids.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Homeschooling in Iowa comes with lots of flexibility, but it’s totally normal to have questions. Here are some of the common ones families ask, with clear, simple answers to help you feel more confident.
What is the lowest-maintenance legal option for homeschooling in Iowa?
CPI with no reporting is as hands-off as it gets, with no required paperwork, subjects, or assessments. It gives you full freedom without formal state contact. IPI is another low-regulation option, but it does come with some subject expectations and the possibility of a district request for basic program details.
Can my child take public school classes or join extracurriculars while homeschooling?
Yes, but it depends on your homeschool route. If you choose CPI with annual assessment, teacher supervision, or join a Home School Assistance Program (HSAP), your child can access public school classes, activities, and even sports. If you’re using IPI or CPI with no reporting, those public school extras won’t be available.
What kind of testing is required to homeschool in Iowa?
Only CPI with annual assessment requires formal testing or evaluations. Other options don’t require testing, but you can always do it if you’d like a progress check.
Will my child get a diploma from the school district?
That depends on your district, and it's not guaranteed. If a district-issued diploma is something you’re hoping for, reach out to your local high school around 8th grade. They can walk you through what’s needed for your child’s credit tracking and graduation.
Can I switch homeschooling options later if my needs change?
Absolutely. Life shifts, and so can your homeschool approach. Just know that switching options may come with extra steps, like submitting Form A or completing an assessment, depending on the new path you choose for your child.
Make the most of your homeschool plan
Homeschooling in Iowa gives you the chance to shape your child’s education in a way that feels right for your family. With several legal paths to choose from, you can find the level of support and structure that matches your goals. Once you’ve selected your option, all that’s left is to settle in and create a rhythm that works for you.
Along the way, you can bring in extra support to keep things fresh and engaging. Outschool makes it easy to explore new subjects, connect with passionate teachers, and add a little more joy to your homeschool days, all while staying flexible and in control of your learning journey.
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