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Homeschool laws · Wisconsin

How to homeschool in Wisconsin

Wisconsin counts hours, so log them as you go.

Checked November 2026 against the HSLDA summary for Wisconsin. Laws change, so confirm with the source before you file.

Wisconsin requirements at a glance

Notice to the state or district

Yes, every year. Form PI-1206 filed online with the Department of Public Instruction every year by October 15.

Minimum school time

875 hours a school year (July 1 to June 30).

Required subjects

Reading, language arts, math, social studies, science and health, in a sequentially progressive curriculum.

Parent qualifications

None.

Testing or evaluation

None required.

Records to keep

Copies of every PI-1206 form, and enough tracking to show 875 hours.

Compulsory school ages

6–18

Legal ways to homeschool in Wisconsin

  • Home-based private educational program

What to do, step by step

  1. 01

    File your notice

    Form PI-1206 filed online with the Department of Public Instruction every year by October 15.

    Write the letter of intent
  2. 02

    Plan your school year

    875 hours a school year (July 1 to June 30). A planned calendar still makes the year easier to keep on track.

    Plan the school year
  3. 03

    Track attendance as you go

    Records Wisconsin asks for: copies of every PI-1206 form, and enough tracking to show 875 hours. Even where nothing is required, a dated log protects you if you move, return to school or apply to college.

    Open the attendance tracker
  4. 04

    Keep everything in one place

    Attendance, report cards, reading and field trip logs, test scores and work samples, in the order an evaluator or a school district usually asks for them.

    See the Records Binder

Wisconsin homeschool questions

Do I have to notify anyone to homeschool in Wisconsin?

Form PI-1206 filed online with the Department of Public Instruction every year by October 15.

How many days do you have to homeschool in Wisconsin?

875 hours a school year (July 1 to June 30).

What subjects are required in Wisconsin?

Reading, language arts, math, social studies, science and health, in a sequentially progressive curriculum.

Does Wisconsin require testing for homeschoolers?

None required.

Do parents need a teaching certificate in Wisconsin?

No. Parents do not need any particular qualification.

Confirm before you file

This page summarizes the law in plain English and is not legal advice. Read the HSLDA legal summary for Wisconsin and your state’s own education department page, and compare all 50 states in our homeschool laws by state guide.

Homeschool laws in other states