How to Homeschool in South Carolina
A simple guide to South Carolina homeschool requirements, legal options, and how to stay compliant.
South Carolina is one of the most homeschool-friendly states in the country. Parents can legally homeschool their children through three different accountability options. Regardless of which option you choose, the state requires families to track attendance, teach core subjects, and keep records of their child's learning.
South Carolina Homeschool Requirements
To legally homeschool in South Carolina, families must follow several basic rules established by state law.
- 180 instructional days per school year
- Required subjects: reading, writing, math, science, and social studies
- Composition and literature for grades 7–12
- Attendance tracking for each instructional day
- Record keeping and portfolios documenting student progress
Many homeschool families use tools like LessonNest to automatically track attendance and organize these records.
South Carolina Homeschool Options
South Carolina allows families to homeschool under three different legal pathways.
Option 1 — Homeschool Through Your School District
Parents apply for approval through their local school district. This option is the most regulated and may require annual assessments or progress reports.
Option 2 — Homeschool Through SCAIHS
Families can homeschool under the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS), which provides accountability and support.
Option 3 — Homeschool Through a Third-Option Association
Most homeschool families choose this option. Parents join a homeschool association that provides legal accountability.
How Many Days Are Required for Homeschool in South Carolina?
South Carolina law requires homeschool programs to include at least 180 instructional days each school year with a minimum of 4.5 hours of instruction per day (only required for Option 1 district homeschooling).
Parents are responsible for tracking attendance and maintaining records of instructional days.
What Records Should Homeschool Parents Keep?
- Attendance logs
- Subjects taught
- Work samples and portfolio items
- Documentation of academic progress
These records help demonstrate that a homeschool program is meeting South Carolina requirements.