Homeschooling Overseas for Military Families: DoD Policy, Rights & PCS Tips
- Jetta Allen
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
The homeschooling community in military installations is rapidly growing! Whether you’re joining Facebook groups, attending local meetups, or exploring online forums, the following questions keep coming up:
“What do I do first?”
“What are the legal considerations?”
“Who do I have to notify?”
“What happens when we leave?”
If you’re new to homeschooling in an overseas military community, new to South Korea, or considering moving and then switching to homeschooling, this post is designed just for you!
Homeschooling Quick Facts: DoD Policy for Military Families Overseas
There are no NDAA provisions or DoD directives that impose requirements or restrictions on homeschooling for military families overseas.
Governing laws and regulations provide educational schooling options and additional resources from DoDEA, but do not regulate parents' or guardians' homeschool choices.
Military commanders have no authority over homeschool decisions overseas.
At present, there are no separate Department of Defense (DOD) or service regulations specifically devoted to homeschooling within the military while overseas. If stateside, individual state laws apply.
Now, regulations and requirements around supervision and neglect still apply. These regulations and requirements are based on each military commander's “supervision matrix” for each duty installation. These can usually be found on your duty installation’s website, or you can ask your Child and Youth Services for a copy.
Common Questions About Homeschooling Overseas Military Families
Yes. Homeschooling is permitted in overseas military installations. Military installations are not bound by U.S. state or host-nation rules via SOFA. Education is mentioned in the SOFA Agreements or DoD regulations. Parents retain monitoring and compliance decisions.
Yes. Some countries with US military installations do not permit homeschooling, for example, Germany. However, for military families with SOFA status, homeschooling is permitted as a legal option. These families are not subject to German homeschooling laws and can choose to homeschool their children without seeking permission from German authorities.
Yes. It's important to note that while homeschooling is allowed, it is not a common practice in many countries, and families should be mindful of local perceptions and expectations.
No. There is no mandatory home education oversight. DoDEA can provide “auxiliary resources” to homeschool families, but does not conduct any oversight over homeschooling.
Yes. You can homeschool and enroll your child as an “Auxiliary Student” in DoDEA.
Yes, your child can take electives or specific elementary, middle, and high school courses and electives at DoDEA as an “Auxiliary Student.” This also allows your child access to school resources; however, a homeschool/auxiliary student is not eligible for a diploma or to participate in the graduation ceremony and walk the stage.
No. School attendance is not mandated by DoD regulations, and there is no enforcement mechanism overseas except for supervision and neglect, as mentioned.
No. You do not have to use any state or “home of record” statutes or laws for homeschooling overseas as a military-connected dependent under SOFA. If you're in a country not under a SOFA, host-nation laws may apply.
No. You do not have to use an accredited online school, program, or curriculum.
No. You do not have to register with the Department of Defense Education Activity, DoDEA (school district on post), or with local, host-nation education institutions.
No. You do not have to do ANYTHING or submit any information about your intent to homeschool. You do not have to notify anyone of your decision to homeschool. If you are currently enrolled in DoDEA schools, you do have to dis-enroll your child, but that’s it. They may ask why; you can provide a reason if you choose.
School Liaison Officers: Key Resources for Military Homeschool Families Abroad
School Liaison Officers (SLOs) are your official connection to education resources on overseas installations. They provide information on local schooling options, including homeschooling regulations, help with school transitions, coordinate youth programs, and support specifically for homeschooling families. While their role is vital, don’t hesitate to tap into your local homeschool community and volunteers, who often provide hands-on support and invaluable guidance.
Programs, Support, and Curriculum Options for Military Homeschoolers
There are a lot of resources available at your installation's library, co-ops, and other small group meetups.
There are online schools and homeschool programs, both non-accredited and accredited.
For some states, you may have the option to use what the public school system offers for homeschool support if you are still a resident of said state. For example, some public school systems offer free online courses or programs for students who wish to obtain their education outside the brick-and-mortar school building. In that instance, some states allow you to share your home of record or residency information to qualify for such programs. This is state and district-dependent.Don’t be afraid to ask this community for help when you need it, and don’t be afraid to create something new to benefit your family!
PCS Moves and Homeschooling: What Military Families Need to Know
Wondering about leaving your military installation overseas as a homeschooler? Transitioning to homeschooling in another country or stateside requires quite a bit of preparation. It also requires you to understand the laws of the state you will be moving to, so look it up before choosing duty stations in your marketplace if you intend to homeschool.
You can also check out the Homeschool Legal Defense Association website, which has general homeschooling parameters for each state, which can be so beneficial for homeschoolers!Find more homeschool support and resources here: https://hslda.org/legal.
How MIC3 Protects Military Homeschoolers During PCS Transitions
Before you PCS, it’s important to know about the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission (MIC3), even if you homeschool.
While MIC3 primarily supports military-connected students transitioning between public schools, it also protects your right to re-enroll, access extracurriculars, and ensure a smooth credit transfer if your child returns to a traditional school setting. If you ever transition from homeschooling back to a public school, especially during a PCS, MIC3 can help mitigate issues with enrollment, grade placement, and eligibility for sports or special programs.
Even though MIC3 doesn’t regulate homeschooling itself, understanding your rights under this compact helps you advocate effectively for your child during transitions, whether moving between states or OCONUS and back.Learn more about your MIC3 rights here: https://mic3.net.
Final Thoughts: Thriving While Homeschooling Overseas as a Military Family
Homeschooling as a military family stationed overseas presents unique challenges, yet also offers incredible freedom and flexibility. With access to accurate information, the right resources, and a supportive community, you can build a thriving homeschool experience no matter where you're stationed. Whether you're navigating SOFA rules, planning for a PCS, or choosing a curriculum that fits your mobile lifestyle, remember: you’ve got this and you aren’t alone! Keep moving forward, one duty station and one lesson at a time.
Explore More Resources for Military Homeschool Families
Homeschooling as a military family is a journey filled with questions, choices, and opportunities for growth. If you’re ready to dive deeper, here are additional resources to help you explore curriculum options, gain practical tips, and hear real experiences from other military parents:
Deciding to Homeschool: A Personal Journey Beyond School Walls – Learn from a parent’s perspective on why homeschooling can be a meaningful choice for military families.
Military Homeschool Curriculum Guide – Discover curriculum recommendations tailored for the unique needs of military-connected students.
Homeschooling Overseas Military Families Curriculum Guide – Find strategies and resources specifically for families homeschooling while stationed abroad.
Military Parent Involvement: Education Tips – Get practical advice on staying engaged in your child’s education, whether at home or in a traditional setting.
By exploring these guides, you’ll be better equipped to make confident decisions and build a homeschooling experience that fits your family’s lifestyle—no matter where the military takes you.
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