Overview: Homeschooling Law in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has detailed homeschool requirements under 24 P.S. §13-1327.1. Must file a notarized affidavit with the school district. Annual portfolio review by a licensed teacher or evaluator, OR standardized testing. Objectives must be filed. High school students must study specific required subjects.
Graduation Credit Requirements
The commonly accepted minimum for a competitive college-prep transcript from Pennsylvania is 22 Carnegie units. However, because Pennsylvania 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
Portfolio review paperwork may need notarization. The transcript itself does not require notarization.
Dual Enrollment
Pennsylvania homeschoolers may participate in dual enrollment through the Pennsylvania Distance Learning Charter School or local community colleges. Requirements vary by institution. Some PA community colleges have established homeschool dual enrollment processes; call admissions.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Pennsylvania State Grant (PHEAA): Needs-based. Homeschool graduates who enroll at participating PA colleges may apply. Must demonstrate financial need via FAFSA.
Key Resources for Pennsylvania Homeschoolers
- Pennsylvania Department of Education — for official homeschool policy documents
- Home School Legal Defense Association (PA chapter) — hslda.org for legal questions
- What to include on a homeschool transcript
- Free GPA calculator
- Blank transcript template (PDF)