Overview: Homeschooling Law in New York
Must submit an Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP) to the local school district annually. New York has some of the most detailed homeschool regulations. Annual assessment required (standardized test or portfolio). Must teach required subjects. Detailed recordkeeping required.
Graduation Credit Requirements
The commonly accepted minimum for a competitive college-prep transcript from New York is 22 Carnegie units. However, because New York homeschools set their own graduation standards (except where state law specifies otherwise), you may set a higher bar.
Recommended distribution for a college-bound student:
| Subject | Minimum Credits | College-Prep Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| English / Language Arts | 4.0 | 4.0 (including composition) |
| Mathematics | 3.0 | 4.0 (through pre-calculus) |
| Science | 2.0–3.0 | 3.0–4.0 (at least 2 with lab) |
| History / Social Studies | 3.0 | 3.0–4.0 |
| Foreign Language | 0–2.0 | 2.0–3.0 (same language) |
| Fine Arts | 0–1.0 | 1.0 |
| PE / Health | 0.5–1.0 | 1.0 |
| Electives | Varies | 4.0–6.0 |
Notarization
Not required by state law. Some SUNY institutions have requested notarized transcripts as an internal policy — call admissions before submitting.
Dual Enrollment
Dual enrollment opportunities vary by county and institution. Some New York community colleges have established homeschool dual enrollment pathways. Contact the specific college. New York does not have a statewide dual enrollment mandate for homeschoolers.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): New York's main state grant. Homeschool graduates may apply if they meet GPA and income requirements. Must attend a TAP-eligible institution.
Key Resources for New York Homeschoolers
- New York Department of Education — for official homeschool policy documents
- Home School Legal Defense Association (NY chapter) — hslda.org for legal questions
- What to include on a homeschool transcript
- Free GPA calculator
- Blank transcript template (PDF)