South Carolina

South Carolina offers three distinct legal options for homeschooling, each with different oversight levels.

Key Statutes

Historical Timeline

• 1988: Homeschooling legalized; Option 1 established
• 1992: Option 2 enacted (SCAIHS membership)
• 1996: Option 3 enacted (50-member associations)
• 2012: Equal Access to Interscholastic Activities Act
• 2023: Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESA) program

Parent Qualification (All Options)

All three options require high school diploma or GED. No exceptions.

Quick Comparison

Option 3: Most Popular and Flexible

Benefits: No mandatory testing, curriculum freedom, flexible oversight, many associations to choose from.

Requirements: High school diploma/GED, 180 instructional days, maintain records (plan book, portfolio, semiannual progress reports).

Choosing Your Option

Steps for Option 3 (Most Popular)

1. Research associations (see SC DOE list)
2. Choose association that fits your needs
3. Complete enrollment/membership process
4. Pay membership fee
5. Begin homeschooling
6. Maintain required records

Compulsory Ages

Ages 5 through 17 — Child turns 5 before September 1 must begin that year.

Kindergarten Waiver

Sign waiver with district if child turns 5 before Sept 1 but won't turn 6 by Sept 1, exempting from compulsory attendance until age 6.

Universal Requirements

Required Subjects (All Options)

Grades K-6: Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies

Grades 7-12 (additional): Composition, Literature

Option-Specific

Option 1 (District)

Annual standardized testing REQUIRED. Must participate in statewide testing program. If scores fall below promotion standards, district may require public school placement or special services.

Option 2 (SCAIHS)

Testing every other year, grades 3-11. Nationally normed standardized achievement test. Parents arrange testing. No consequences for low scores.

Option 3 (Association)

No mandatory standardized testing. Individual associations may offer optional testing. Many families test periodically for college prep or progress assessment.

Popular Tests (Options 2 & 3)

Iowa Assessments, Stanford Achievement Test (SAT10), CAT, TerraNova, CLT.

Equal Access Act (2012) ✅

South Carolina passed the "Equal Access to Interscholastic Activities Act" guaranteeing homeschool sports access.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Homeschooled for a full academic year prior to participating
2. Meet all eligibility requirements EXCEPT school attendance/enrollment
3. Reside within attendance boundaries of the school
4. Notify superintendent in writing before season begins
5. Meet same standards for behavior, performance, practice

Academic Eligibility

Parents submit grade reports showing passing work. Accountability association provides verification letter.

SCHSL Requirements (Grades 9-12)

Overall passing average, pass 4-5 academic courses, units toward graduation.

Diplomas

Homeschoolers do NOT receive state-issued diplomas.

SC Public School Requirements (Reference)

24 units total: English (4), Math (4), Science (3), Social Studies (3), PE/ROTC (1), Computer Science (1), Foreign Language or CATE (1), Electives (7).

Transcripts

Use SC Uniform Grade Scale (10-point scale). Parent-signed transcripts accepted for college and scholarships. For ranking needed for scholarships, association must issue/sign transcript.

University of South Carolina

Test-optional. Requires application, parent-created transcript, Common App Secondary School Report. Values externally graded work (AP exams, dual enrollment).

Clemson University

Test-optional. Requires high school GPA, transcript, college prep program completion. Recommends 4 English, 4 Math, 3 Lab Science, 3 Foreign Language (same language).

ESA Program (ESTF)

Award: $7,500/student. Eligibility: Must have attended SC public school previous year OR be entering kindergarten. Current homeschoolers generally NOT eligible. Covers private tuition, curriculum, materials, tutoring, therapies.

2026-27 Expansion: 500% FPL income limit, 15,000+ student cap.

South Carolina's three-option system gives families flexibility to choose oversight level. Most choose Option 3.

Key Advantages:

1. Three Options — Choose your preferred oversight level
2. Option 3 Freedom — No mandatory testing, curriculum choice
3. Equal Access Law — Sports and activities guaranteed
4. Parent-Issued Diplomas — Accepted for college and scholarships
5. Many Associations — Options across state to fit different needs
6. Clear Legal Framework — Well-established since 1988

Comparison Table