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How to Homeschool in Iowa
A plain-English starting point for Iowa families: the legal basics, a simple first week, and an online K–12 curriculum built to help you meet homeschool requirements.
Step 1: Know Iowa's homeschool basics
In short: HSLDA lists five legal options for homeschooling in Iowa, and compulsory school ages of 6–16. Notice: Yes, except options 1 and 2. Required subjects: No, except option 1. Assessment: No, except option 4. No parent teaching qualification is required.
For the current statute, deadlines, and forms, see HSLDA's Iowa homeschool law page. HSLDA's page also lists state and local support groups.
| Legal options | Five |
|---|---|
| Compulsory ages | 6–16 |
| Notice required | Yes, except options 1 and 2 |
| Parent qualifications | No |
| Required subjects | No, except option 1 |
| Testing / assessment | No, except option 4 |
| Immunization records | Yes, except options 1 and 2 |
This is a general summary, not legal advice. Homeschool laws change, and following them is the parent's responsibility. Check HSLDA or your state's education department before you start.
Step 2: Choose a curriculum that fits your family
Complete K–12 lessons
Daily lessons in every grade, with pictures, interactive labs, games, and quizzes that grade themselves.
History from primary sources
Students read real documents, letters, and speeches, not just textbook summaries.
High school transcripts and credits
Pathways for College Prep/STEM, Trades, and Business, with tools to help you build a parent-issued transcript.
Student Resource Center
Free citation guides, calculators, and study tools, all in one place.
Record-keeping help
Use our record-keeping guide to keep attendance, work samples, and results.
Live 1:1 tutoring
Optional live tutoring over Zoom or Google Meet, $35/hour (first full hour $25).
Step 3: Plan your first week
- Read the Iowa requirements above and file any required notice.
- Set up a simple record-keeping folder (attendance, work samples, and test or evaluation results if Iowa asks for them).
- Start Week 1 of Life Academy free and see how your child responds.
- Connect with a local co-op or a statewide group for field trips and community.
Pricing
| Plan | Monthly | Yearly |
|---|---|---|
| One student (K–12) | $35/mo | $336/yr |
| Family plan (up to 4 students) | $69/mo | $662/yr |
| Live 1:1 tutoring | $35/hour (first full hour $25) | |
Week 1 is free. See plans
Iowa homeschool FAQ
Is homeschooling legal in Iowa?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in all 50 states. See HSLDA for Iowa's specific rules.
Is Life Academy accredited?
No. Life Academy is not accredited. It's a parent-directed curriculum built to help you meet homeschool requirements. Parents issue the homeschool transcript.
Can my teen earn high school credits?
Yes. Courses come with credit guidance and transcript tools. Colleges set their own admission rules, so check with the schools your teen is considering.