There are no required courses or graduation requirements for homeschoolers under Virginia law. As the parent, you choose the coursework and curriculum for your homeschooled teen. Some families take a traditional path and have their student study traditional middle school and high school subjects, using similar materials and approaches to those used in public or private schools. Others take a more unconventional approach and create a customized curriculum around their teen’s interests and local resources. Accredited correspondence schools, co-ops, and community colleges are popular resources with many families. Experienced homeschoolers suggest that you consider the admissions requirements for your child’s potential post-secondary plans as a way to determine appropriate high school courses.

The Commonwealth of Virginia does not award diplomas to homeschooled students. Most homeschooled students go on to college or career without a state-issued diploma. Some choose to earn a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). If a diploma is important to you or your student, our article on High School Diploma Options offers several options which you may wish to consider.

Sounds like what you are looking for is an accredited tutor who will work with your student on a part or full time basis. This is a legal option for complying with the compulsory attendance code, but it is not considered “homeschooling” under Virginia law, even if your student receives all his tutoring in the home. Another possible option for your family is to use an accredited correspondence school with a teacher advisor option, and have your student use this curriculum at home, at your workplace, or in another place of your choosing. Other possible options and considerations are detailed on the Homeschooling With Help page.

There are pros and cons to beginning homeschooling at this stage of your educational journey. Read Beginning Homeschooling Your Senior Year: Pros and Cons first, and consider your options. If you still think that homeschooling is the right option for you, then read as much as you can about homeschooling in Virginia and the different options for homeschooling high school. Our VaHomeschoolers Bookstore has resources on teen homeschooling which may be of interest to you. Your local public library may also have helpful books and resources. Share what you’ve learned with your parents or guardians.