South Carolina homeschool requirements
Last checked October 2026. This is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. Your district or association has the final say.
Three ways to homeschool
Option 1: approval from your school district board. Option 2: membership in SCAIHS. Option 3: membership in a homeschool association with at least 50 members.
Subjects
Reading, writing, math, science and social studies, plus composition and literature in grades 7 to 12.
Days
180 days. Option 1 also requires at least 4 and a half hours a day.
Records
Under Options 1 and 3: a plan book or diary of subjects taught, a portfolio of work samples, and a record of evaluations, plus a semiannual progress report. Under Option 1 the progress report goes to your district. SCAIHS (Option 2) sets its own standards.
Testing
Option 1 families take the annual statewide tests. Options 2 and 3 follow their association's rules.
Where Gallop fits
Subject-by-subject progress and dated activity can help you write the semiannual progress report and fill your plan book.
Gallop's Records report prints, for each child and any date range, the days and minutes they worked, the subjects covered, each skill mastered with its date, and sample questions your child answered correctly. Minutes count time in Gallop only, not all of your teaching. Most parents add it to their own records rather than using it as their only record.
Read more
FAQ
Which option do families usually choose?
Many join a third-option association, which handles the reporting rules for its members.
Can I try it first?
Yes. Try 7 sample questions, or start the 7-day free trial. No card needed.
Sources
- S.C. Code Title 59, Chapter 65: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t59c065.php
- SC Department of Education, home schooling options: https://ed.sc.gov/districts-schools/state-accountability/home-schooling/home-school-option-3/