Probability of a Child Being Homeschooled

Homeschooling has grown significantly in the United States, with approximately 3.3 million students (about 6% of school-age children) being homeschooled as of 2023. This represents a dramatic increase from about 3.3% before the COVID-19 pandemic. While some families returned to traditional schooling, the homeschooling rate has remained elevated.

The primary reasons families choose homeschooling include concerns about the school environment (safety, bullying, negative peer pressure), desire to provide religious or moral instruction, dissatisfaction with academic instruction, the need for a flexible schedule (for traveling families, child actors, competitive athletes), and special educational needs. Homeschooling demographics have diversified significantly, with Black homeschooling families being the fastest-growing demographic.

Research on homeschool academic outcomes is mixed but generally favorable, with homeschooled students typically scoring above average on standardized tests and achieving similar or higher college GPAs. Concerns about socialization persist, though many homeschool families participate in co-ops, sports leagues, and community activities. Legal requirements for homeschooling vary dramatically by state, from no notification required to requiring standardized testing.