Homeschooling in Missouri

Homeschooling in Missouri is a legal educational option. Missouri has relatively flexible homeschooling regulations, and as of 2025, homeschooling families can now access MOScholars funding through select Educational Assistance Organizations (EAOs).

Legal Status: Homeschooling is legal in Missouri. Parents have the right to educate their children at home.

State Requirements:

1. Notification:

• Notify your local school district of intent to homeschool
• Submit notification annually
• No formal approval required – notification is sufficient

2. Required Subjects: Must provide at least 1,000 hours of instruction per school year, with at least 600 hours in the following core subjects:

• Reading
• Language Arts
• Mathematics
• Social Studies
• Science

Additional subjects recommended but not required: Fine arts, practical arts, physical education, health

3. Assessment:

• No standardized testing required for most families homeschooling in Missouri
• If using MOScholars for Family Paced Education: Standardized testing required by EAO

4. Record Keeping:

• Maintain records of instruction, curriculum used, and student progress
• Keep samples of student work
• Maintain attendance records showing 1,000 hours of instruction
• High school transcripts recommended for college-bound students

Teacher Qualifications: No teaching certification required for parents. Any parent or legal guardian can homeschool their child.

MOScholars Funding for Homeschoolers:

Homeschooling families can now access MOScholars funding to support Family Paced Education (FPE):

How It Works:

• Apply through select Educational Assistance Organizations (EAOs) that support homeschooling
• Example: Herzog Tomorrow Foundation serves homeschool/Family Paced Education families (up to $7,145 per student)
• Requires curriculum approval from the EAO
• Standardized testing required when using MOScholars for homeschool
• Must meet same eligibility requirements as other MOScholars applicants (IEP or income ≤300% of free/reduced lunch threshold + public school attendance requirement)

MOScholars Funds Can Be Used For:

• Homeschool curriculum and materials
• Online courses and programs
• Tutoring services
• Educational therapy
• AP test fees and exam preparation
• Approved computer equipment and educational technology
• Educational programs and services

Typical Homeschool Costs (Without MOScholars):

• Low-cost: $300-$600/year using free resources, library materials, budget curricula
• Mid-range: $600-$1,500/year with packaged curricula
• High-end: $1,500-$3,000+/year with comprehensive programs, online courses, co-op fees

With MOScholars: Families can receive $6,375-$11,156/year depending on eligibility, significantly reducing or eliminating out-of-pocket homeschool costs

Homeschool Support in Missouri:

• Active homeschool support groups and co-ops throughout the state
• Homeschool conventions and resource fairs
• Online communities and local networks
• Co-op programs for shared teaching and socialization

College Admissions: Missouri homeschool students are regularly admitted to colleges and universities. Requirements vary by institution:

• Maintain detailed high school transcripts
• SAT/ACT scores typically required
• Some colleges may require additional documentation or portfolio review

Part-Time Public School Enrollment: Some districts may allow homeschool students to participate in specific programs, extracurricular activities, or sports. Policies vary significantly by district – contact your local school district for specific policies.