Cost of Homeschooling in Virginia: Guidance and Pros and Cons
- Charles Albanese
- Oct 14
- 10 min read
If you are considering homeschooling in Virginia, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is cost. Families are often surprised to learn that homeschooling can be as affordable or as expensive as they choose to make it.
Some parents prefer a simple, budget-friendly approach, while others invest in full programs, activities, and extras.
In this guide, we will look at what you can expect to spend on homeschooling in Virginia, explore ways to save money, and walk through the advantages and challenges that come with the decision.
By the end, you will have a clearer picture of whether homeschooling is the right fit for your family.
Key Insights
Homeschooling in Virginia is affordable and flexible: On average, it costs about $1,295 per year for elementary students and $1,636 for middle and high school students. The cost can vary based on your curriculum choices and extracurricular activities.
Virginia has clear homeschooling regulations: Parents need to file a Notice of Intent annually and track academic progress through standardized testing or other evaluations. While there are some requirements, there’s also plenty of flexibility in how you teach your child.
Support and community are key to successful homeschooling: Homeschool co-ops, local groups, and online communities provide valuable resources, shared knowledge, and emotional support. Joining these groups can help alleviate some of the challenges and make homeschooling more enjoyable.
Homeschooling offers freedom to tailor your child’s education: One of the greatest advantages of homeschooling is the ability to personalize learning. You can adjust the pace, style, and content to meet your child’s specific needs, fostering a deeper and more meaningful educational experience.
Homeschooling can be time-consuming and requires significant commitment: The responsibility of planning, teaching, and managing daily schedules rests entirely on the parent. For many families, this can be a challenging and time-consuming task, especially for working parents or those with multiple children.
Understanding the Basics of Homeschooling in Virginia
Homeschooling in Virginia is growing steadily. In the 2024-25 school year, almost 63,000 students were educated at home, according to the Home Educators Association of Virginia.
Public school enrollment has been declining over recent years while more families are choosing home instruction for reasons such as faith, personalized learning, and accommodating special needs.
Below is a quick overview of the legal requirements in Virginia, followed by some reasons why homeschooling costs differ so much from one family to another.
Legal Requirements in Virginia
These are some of the rules Virginia parents must follow if they choose to homeschool under the Home Instruction law.
Parents must file a Notice of Intent annually with their local school division, by August 15, stating that they intend to instruct their child at home. If they move into a district or start homeschooling after the school year begins, they must notify as soon as practicable and meet other requirements within 30 days.
Along with the Notice, parents need to submit a list of subjects the child will study in the coming year.
Parents must meet at least one of four qualification options:
At the end of each school year, by August 1, they must provide evidence of academic progress, either by:
a score in or above the fourth stanine on a nationally normed standardized test (or equivalent ACT/SAT/PSAT)
or an alternative evaluation acceptable to the division superintendent (teacher letter, transcript, etc.)
Why Costs Vary Depending on Approach
Here are some of the main factors that cause costs to differ widely among homeschooling families in Virginia:
Curriculum choice: Whether parents select a full packaged curriculum, a mix of free resources, online programs, or correspondence courses makes a big difference.
Materials and supplies: Textbooks, workbooks, manipulatives, science kits, art supplies, etc., all add up. Families with multiple kids may reuse material or share costs; others may purchase new items for each child.
Technology: Access to computers, tablets, internet speed, educational software, or subscriptions for online learning platforms.
Assessment methods: Standardized tests cost money (registration, shipping, proctoring). If using private evaluators or tutors for assessments, that increases costs.
Extracurriculars and enrichment: Co-ops, sports, music lessons, field trips, art classes, theater, etc., often involve fees. The more involvement, the higher the cost.
Geography and resources: Areas with more support groups, libraries, or homeschool co-ops may offer cheaper or shared options. Rural areas may have fewer in-person resources, which can increase travel or shipping costs.
Number of children: Having more children often gives some economies of scale (shared books, supplies, etc.), but can also multiply variable costs (tests, classes, elective enrichment).
Once you understand the legal side of homeschooling in Virginia, the next big question is money. Families often wonder how much they will need to set aside to make homeschooling work.
The truth is, there is no single price tag because every household approaches it differently. Some families keep things simple with free or low-cost resources, while others build a rich learning experience with specialized classes, co-ops, and extracurricular activities.
How Much Does It Cost to Homeschool in Virginia?
According to the Home Educators Association of Virginia, a reasonable expectation is around $250 to $350 per child each year when covering basics like books, software, and educational games.
Caveat: The actual cost will be much higher as the above figures do not include extras such as private lessons, travel, or advanced online programs.
In practice, the amount Virginia families spend often falls into three general ranges:
Minimalist approach: $300–$600 per child per year Families who rely on free online resources, the public library, and secondhand materials often stay in this range.
Mid-range approach: $700–$1,800 per child per year ```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````This includes a packaged curriculum, field trips, co-op fees, and occasional extracurriculars.
Premium approach: $2,000+ per child per year Families investing in specialized online academies, frequent classes, tutors, or enrichment activities will often see costs rise to this level.
These numbers align with national averages reported by the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), which found that homeschooling an elementary school student typically costs around $1,295 per year, while the cost for middle and high school students averages $1,636 annually.
Use the above data to benchmark what homeschooling might cost in Virginia for different styles and grades.
Homeschooling Style / Grade Level | Estimated Annual Cost per Child | What That Covers / Notes |
Elementary School Student (U.S. average) | US$1,295 | |
Middle / High School Student (U.S. average) | US$1,636 | |
Low-cost / Minimalist Homeschooling | US$500 | |
Moderate-investment Homeschooling** | US$700-$1,800 | |
Premium / Enriched Option** | Over US$2,000+ | When families invest in private or specialized online learning, many electives, frequent enrichment activities, high-end materials, possibly hiring instructors or tutors. |
Feeling a bit unsure after all the information? That’s completely normal! Homeschooling can feel like a big transition, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Finding the right resources and support can make all the difference, and The School House Anywhere (TSHA) program is here to make that easier for you.
If you’re looking for a flexible, hands-on approach to homeschooling, The School House Anywhere offers a comprehensive solution.
Based on the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC), our program is rooted in 12 years of research and designed to offer high-quality, secular education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and real-world learning.
What AEC Includes:
A developmentally-aligned curriculum for Pre-K to 6th grade
Customizable, hands-on learning resources such as films, printables, and worksheets
24/7 live support and community for guidance and troubleshooting
A non-screen, engaging approach focused on experiential learning
Progress tracking tools to monitor and showcase student growth
At TSHA, we provide resources, educational materials, live support, and a unified dashboard to easily track student progress for both parents and educators. Our Transparent Classroom tool makes it simple to manage portfolios and stay compliant with local regulations.
If you want more information about homeschooling or need some support as you get started, check out TSHA and discover how we can help make your homeschooling journey a rewarding and smooth experience!
While homeschooling can be a rewarding experience, the costs can add up quickly if you're not careful. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to keep things affordable without sacrificing quality.
Here are some practical tips to help you save while providing an enriching education for your child.
Practical Ways to Save on Homeschooling
Homeschooling doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, there are plenty of ways to make your educational journey affordable while still providing your child with a rich learning experience.
Here are a few viable tips to help you save:
Free and Low-Cost Curriculum Resources: There are many free or low-cost resources available online, including open-source textbooks, lesson plans, and educational websites.
The School House Anywhere (TSHA) program offers parents and educators access to a comprehensive, hands-on curriculum with printable materials, films, and resources, all designed to be affordable and engaging for students.
Public Library and Local Community Programs: Don’t forget about your local library! Many libraries offer free access to books, educational DVDs, e-books, and even organized learning programs. They may also have free events and workshops to enrich your child’s learning.
Homeschool Groups and Co-ops: Joining a homeschool group or co-op can be an excellent way to share resources and expenses. Co-ops often organize group learning activities, field trips, and shared classes, which can help reduce individual costs and create a supportive community.
Tips for Planning a Realistic Budget: When planning your homeschooling budget, take the time to research the costs of curriculum, supplies, field trips, and extracurriculars. Set a realistic budget based on your needs and try to stick to it by prioritizing what matters most. Don’t feel pressured to buy everything all at once!
Homeschooling offers many advantages, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Let’s explore some of the key pros and cons of homeschooling in Virginia to help you weigh your options.
Pros and Cons of Homeschooling in Virginia
Every educational option has its pros and cons, and homeschooling is no different. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
Advantages:
Flexibility: Homeschooling allows you to set your own schedule and pace. This flexibility is great for families with busy schedules or kids who need a more personalized approach.
Personalized Learning: You can tailor lessons to suit your child's unique learning style and pace, giving them the attention they need to thrive.
Ability to Focus on Interests: Homeschooling allows you to dive deeper into subjects that spark your child’s curiosity, giving them the opportunity to explore their passions at their own pace.
Close Family Connections: Homeschooling encourages a strong family bond as you spend more time together throughout the day. This can lead to a deeper emotional connection and shared experiences.
Freedom from Standardized Testing: Many parents appreciate that homeschooling gives children a break from the pressures of standardized tests, allowing them to focus on learning in a stress-free environment.
Control Over Curriculum and Resources: You have the ability to choose the curriculum and learning materials that best fit your child's needs, interests, and learning style.
Challenges
Time Demands: Homeschooling requires a significant time commitment from parents. From planning lessons to teaching and supervising activities, it can feel like a full-time job.
Financial Planning: While homeschooling can be cost-effective, it’s important to budget for materials, curriculum, and activities. Without the support of a public school system, these costs fall solely on the family.
Fewer Ready-Made Resources: Public and private schools readily offer resources like counselors, library staff, and specialized teachers. As a homeschooler, you might need to create or source these on your own.
Wrap Up
Homeschooling offers countless benefits, from personalized learning to more time spent with your family. It also requires careful planning, budgeting, and support to ensure a smooth experience.
By taking the time to research your options and connect with other homeschooling families, you can build a rewarding learning environment for your child. Remember, there are plenty of resources available to guide you every step of the way.
Are you ready to take the stress out of planning your homeschooling curriculum?
The School House Anywhere (TSHA) program can be your trusted partner. Based on the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC), TSHA provides everything you need to start homeschooling with confidence:
Comprehensive, Hands-On Curriculum: A well-rounded curriculum for Pre-K to 6th grade that is designed to engage and inspire children through creative learning.
Printable Materials and Resources: Access to films, worksheets, and printables that complement lessons and make learning interactive and fun.
24/7 Live Support: Round-the-clock assistance for any questions or guidance you may need, ensuring you feel supported at all times.
Non-Screen, Experiential Learning: A curriculum that focuses on hands-on learning and real-world experiences, keeping your child engaged without excessive screen time.
Progress Tracking Tools: Easy-to-use tools to track your child's academic progress, helping you stay organized and on top of their development.
User-Friendly Platform: A simple and intuitive platform to manage lessons, track progress, and access all resources effortlessly.
Ready to get started? TSHA is here to help you create a fulfilling homeschooling experience. Take the first step today by registering as a parent or educator and discover how we can support you on your journey!
FAQs
What are the legal requirements for homeschooling in Virginia?
In Virginia, parents must file a Notice of Intent to homeschool, submit an annual list of subjects, and provide evidence of academic progress. This can be done through standardized testing or alternative evaluations.
How much does it cost to homeschool in Virginia?
On average, homeschooling costs $1,295 for elementary students and $1,636 for middle and high school students. However, costs can vary widely based on curriculum choices, extracurricular activities, and location.
Can I homeschool in Virginia if I don’t have a teaching degree?
Yes! As long as you meet one of Virginia’s qualification criteria, such as having a high school diploma or using a recognized curriculum, you can legally homeschool your child in Virginia.
Are there any local resources for homeschooling in Virginia?
Yes! Many Virginia communities have homeschool co-ops, support groups, and local libraries offering educational resources. The Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV) is also a great place to find support and guidance.
How can I save money on homeschooling?`````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````
Consider using free online resources, taking advantage of your local library, and joining a homeschool co-op to share resources. Additionally, programs like The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offer affordable curriculum and 24/7 support.
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