Starting to homeschool in New Mexico might feel like a big decision, but here's the good news: you're choosing one of the most welcoming states for homeschool families. New Mexico combines minimal paperwork with real access to public resources like free college courses and school sports.
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.
Understanding New Mexico's homeschool laws
New Mexico recognizes homeschooling as a legal educational option, giving parents the authority to operate a home study program that provides a basic academic education. The state takes a notification approach rather than an approval system, which means you're informing the state of your choice, not asking for permission.
Compulsory education ages
Children in New Mexico must receive education from ages 5 through 18. Specifically, if your child turns 5 before September 1 of a given school year, they fall under the compulsory attendance requirement. Your child can exit this requirement earlier by graduating, earning a GED or HiSET, or receiving a hardship waiver for students ages 16-18 (which requires approval from your local superintendent).
Notification requirements and deadlines
You'll need to notify the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED), not your local school district. Two important deadlines to remember:
- When you first start: Notify within 30 days of establishing your home school
- Every year after: Re-notify by August 1 (the notification period opens June 1)
You can register through the online portal or mail in a paper form using certified mail if you prefer. The notification asks for basic information: your school district, parent/guardian names, physical address, and for each child: name, date of birth, gender, grade level, and ethnicity. You'll also confirm that whoever's teaching has at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Five required subjects form the core curriculum
New Mexico law requires instruction in five core areas:
- Reading
- Language arts
- Mathematics
- Social studies
- Science
One of the biggest sources of flexibility is that the state does not approve or recommend any particular curriculum. You have complete freedom to choose the teaching materials and approaches that work best for your child. Whether you prefer traditional textbooks, online programs, or a mix of different methods, the choice is entirely yours.
No standardized testing requirements
New Mexico doesn't require standardized testing for homeschool students. You can choose to test your child if you want feedback on their progress, but you don't need to submit any results to the state.
Record-keeping
The only legally required records are:
- Immunization records (or a waiver)
- Proof that your instructor has a high school diploma or GED
That said, the NMPED recommends keeping additional records like copies of your notifications, instructional hours logs, lists of educational materials, student work samples, attendance records, course transcripts, and any test scores you might have. While these aren't legally required, they can be really helpful if your child transfers to a traditional school later or when applying to colleges.
Instructor qualifications
The person providing instruction needs at least a high school diploma or equivalent. While you (the parent or legal guardian) must be the home school operator, you can hire others to teach specific subjects, as long as they also meet that high school diploma requirement.
Graduation options for homeschool students
New Mexico doesn't issue state-recognized diplomas directly to homeschool graduates. You can create and issue your own diploma, but it won't carry official state recognition. If you want a recognized credential, you have three main options:
- Transfer to a traditional school: Your child can complete their remaining requirements at a public or private school to earn an official New Mexico high school diploma (though credit acceptance varies by district, so check early).
- Take a high school equivalency exam: Students age 16 and older can take the GED or HiSET.
- Go straight to college: New Mexico public colleges cannot require a high school equivalency credential if your student completes their homeschool program and submits qualifying test scores.
Public funding and resource access for New Mexico homeschoolers
While New Mexico doesn't have an Education Savings Account (ESA) program or direct homeschool funding, several valuable benefits exist for families. Like a powerful 529 plan tax deduction and guaranteed access to public school activities.
The 529 plan offers New Mexico's strongest financial benefit
New Mexico's "The Education Plan" provides the state's most substantial financial advantage for homeschoolers. Contributions are 100% deductible from your state taxable income with no cap whatsoever, making New Mexico one of only four states offering unlimited deductions.
You can use these funds for:
- Curriculum materials, textbooks, and digital resources
- Tuition for online courses or part-time programs
- Fees for standardized tests, AP exams, and college admission tests
- Educational therapies for students with disabilities
- Computer equipment and internet access
- Up to $20,000 annually for K-12 tuition and expenses
Dual enrollment provides free college courses
Your homeschool student can take college courses at no tuition cost through New Mexico's dual credit program. Homeschool students attending public colleges and universities pay no tuition for dual credit courses, you'll only cover textbooks.
To qualify, your child must:
- Not have received a high school diploma or GED yet
- Be enrolled at least half-time in a homeschool program
- Obtain a STARS ID (statewide student identifier) through the NMPED homeschool system
- Meet the individual college's admission requirements
Participating institutions include Central New Mexico Community College (for ages 15-18), UNM Los Alamos, New Mexico Highlands University, Eastern New Mexico University, New Mexico Junior College, and all New Mexico public community colleges. To get started, contact Info.HomeSchool@ped.nm.gov to request a STARS ID.
Public school sports access is guaranteed by law
New Mexico law requires local school districts to let homeschool students participate in athletics and extracurricular activities. This provision gives your child real opportunities to join teams and clubs.
To be eligible, your student needs to:
- Maintain a 2.0 GPA with no failing grades
- Complete a required physical examination
- Pass the NFHS Concussion Course
- Have parent/guardian consent
You'll need a STARS ID and proof of NMPED registration and you can register for up to three activities. For specific requirements, you can check the New Mexico Activities Association page.
Part-time public school enrollment varies by district
Homeschool students may take one or more public school classes, but participation is up to each district, there's no state requirement that districts must accept part-time homeschool students. It's worth reaching out to your local district to ask about their policy.
Find support through homeschool communities in New Mexico
Homeschooling can feel more manageable (and fun!) when you're connected to a supportive community. While New Mexico doesn't have a prominent statewide homeschool organization, these local resources are great places to start if you're looking to build a network or simply share the journey with other families.
Home Grown Heroes A neutral, non-religious group in Las Cruces and Southern New Mexico providing a safe learning space where homeschooled children can make friends and explore new subjects.
Otero County Home-School Educators (OCHE) covers Alamogordo, Holloman Air Force Base, Tularosa, Ruidoso, and surrounding areas. This diverse, secular group explicitly welcomes families of "many different faiths, beliefs, creeds, and walks of life" without exclusion based on "race, religion, sex, handicap, family status or national origin."
You can find more groups and resources using the New Mexico Public Education Department's homeschool site.
Homeschooling in New Mexico: Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
While homeschooling in New Mexico comes with a lot of flexibility, it's normal to have questions. Here are some of the common ones families ask, with clear, simple answers to help you feel more confident.
What are the basic requirements for homeschooling in New Mexico?
You'll need to notify the New Mexico Public Education Department (not your local district) within 30 days of starting, then re-notify by August 1 each year. Teach five required subjects, reading, language arts, math, social studies, and science, and make sure whoever's teaching has at least a high school diploma. That's it. No testing required, no curriculum approval needed.
Do I need to get approval from the state or school district to homeschool?
No approval needed. New Mexico uses a notification system, which means you're simply informing the state of your decision to homeschool. You're not asking for permission, and there's no review process. Just file your notification and you're good to go.
Can my child participate in public school sports and activities while homeschooling?
Yes. New Mexico law guarantees homeschool students the right to participate in public school athletics and extracurricular activities. Your child will need to maintain a 2.0 GPA, complete a physical exam, and have a STARS ID. They can register for up to three activities.
Is standardized testing required in New Mexico?
No testing is required. You can choose to test your child privately if you want feedback on their progress, but you don't need to submit results to anyone.
What is a STARS ID and why do I need one?
A STARS ID is a statewide student identifier that unlocks access to public resources like dual enrollment courses and extracurricular activities. You get it through the NMPED homeschool registration system. If you want your child to take free college classes or join school sports, you'll need to request one by contacting Info.HomeSchool@ped.nm.gov.
Can my homeschool student take college courses for free?
Yes. Homeschool students can access New Mexico's dual credit program at no tuition cost, you'll only pay for textbooks. Your child needs to be enrolled at least half-time in homeschool, not have a diploma or GED yet, have a STARS ID, and meet the college's admission requirements. This is one of New Mexico's best benefits for homeschoolers.
Will my child get a state-issued high school diploma?
New Mexico doesn't issue state-recognized diplomas to homeschool graduates. You can create your own diploma, but it won't have official state recognition. If you want a recognized credential, your child can transfer to a traditional school to complete graduation requirements, take the GED or HiSET at age 16 or older, or go straight to a New Mexico public college (which can't require proof of a high school diploma from homeschool graduates who submit qualifying test scores).
Making the most of your New Mexico homeschool
New Mexico gives you a favorable environment for homeschooling with minimal state oversight. With no testing requirements, complete curriculum freedom, and meaningful access to public resources you have plenty of options to create a homeschool plan unique to your child.
If you’re looking for ways to make homeschool more enriching, Outschool makes it easy to add live, small-group classes that cover New Mexico's required subjects while exploring topics your child is passionate about. From math and science to art, coding, and beyond, you'll find engaging options that keep your child excited about learning while giving you the flexibility to shape their education around your family's unique needs and values.
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