Homeschooling in Maryland

Who Must Comply

Maryland law requires instruction for all children between the ages of 5 and 18. If your child turns 5 by September 1, they fall under compulsory education rules that school year. The primary legal framework is found in Maryland Code, Education Article, §7-301, with detailed regulations in COMAR 13A.10.01 (Code of Maryland Regulations, Title 13A, Subtitle 10).

Four Ways to Legally Homeschool

Maryland gives you four distinct paths to comply with homeschool law. You only need to follow one of these options:

1. Direct supervision by the local school system (COMAR 13A.10.01.01) — You notify your local superintendent, teach the required subjects, maintain a portfolio, and submit to periodic portfolio reviews (up to three per school year). This is the most common route.
2. Supervision by a church or religious organization — A bona fide church institution provides oversight of your homeschool program.
3. Supervision by a nonpublic school or institution (COMAR 13A.10.01.05) — An approved nonpublic school (often called an "umbrella school") supervises your program and handles compliance on your behalf.
4. Enrollment in a correspondence course — Your child takes an accredited correspondence program that meets Maryland standards.

Notification Requirements

Under Option 1 (direct supervision), you must notify your local school system at least 15 days before beginning instruction. The notification must include your intent to provide home instruction and basic identifying information. If you are withdrawing a child from public school, you will need to complete a formal withdrawal process with your school district. Options 2, 3, and 4 have their own reporting structures through the supervising entity.

Required Subjects

Maryland requires instruction in the following subject areas, aligned with what public schools teach:

• English (reading, writing, language arts)
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social studies
• Art
• Music
• Health
• Physical education

You have complete freedom to choose your own curriculum, textbooks, and teaching methods. The state does not prescribe specific materials — only subject coverage.

Portfolio Review Process

If you homeschool under Option 1, you must maintain a portfolio demonstrating regular, thorough instruction in each required subject. Your portfolio should include instructional materials, reading materials, samples of your child's writing, worksheets, workbooks, creative projects, and any tests or assessments you administer.

A representative from your local school system may review your portfolio up to three times per year, at mutually agreed-upon times and places. The reviewer evaluates whether instruction is "regular and thorough." If the reviewer finds deficiencies, they will provide written recommendations and allow time for improvement before any further action.

Teacher Qualifications

Maryland does not require any specific teaching credentials, college degrees, or certifications for homeschool parents. You are free to teach your child regardless of your educational background.

Record Keeping

Maintaining good records is essential, especially under Option 1. Keep your portfolio organized and up to date throughout the school year. Even if you choose Options 2–4, your supervising entity may require records for their own oversight processes. It is strongly recommended to keep attendance logs, curriculum plans, and samples of completed work for each child.

State Financial Programs

Maryland's primary school-choice program is the BOOST Scholarship (Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today). However, BOOST is designed for students attending participating nonpublic schools, not homeschool families. For the 2025–2026 school year, approximately $9 million was budgeted, serving around 3,000 students. Eligibility requires qualifying for free or reduced-price meals.

Proposed ESA Legislation

Maryland does not currently have an Education Savings Account (ESA) program for homeschoolers. However, House Bill 569 (Maryland Universal School Choice Act) and HB 704 have been introduced, proposing ESAs that would provide grants to families for expenses related to nonpublic or homeschool education — including textbooks, tutoring, and curriculum. These bills have not yet passed as of early 2026, but they signal growing interest in school choice. [VERIFY current status of HB 569 and HB 704]

Federal Tax-Advantaged Accounts

While Maryland offers no state tax deductions or credits specifically for homeschoolers, you can take advantage of federal options:

• Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA) — Save up to $2,000 per child per year in a tax-advantaged account. Funds can be used for K–12 educational expenses including curriculum, books, supplies, tutoring, and even computer equipment.
• 529 College Savings Plans — Maryland's 529 plan allows tax-free growth for future education costs. Up to $10,000 per year can be used for K–12 tuition expenses under federal law.

Extracurricular Access

Maryland does not currently have a statewide "Tim Tebow law" granting homeschooled students access to public school sports teams. However, some private schools and homeschool co-ops field their own athletic teams, and policies may vary by district. Check with your local school system for any available options.