Parent-led homeschooling was once an “alternative” but is now almost “mainstream” in the US. This form of education is growing rapidly, not only in the US but worldwide. Countries such as Australia, Canada, France, Hungary, Japan, Kenya, Russia, Mexico, South Korea, Thailand, and the UK are seeing an increase in homeschooling.
Growth of homeschooling in the US
In 2020-2021, there were approximately 3.7 million homeschooled students in the US. This was a significant increase from 2.5 million in 2019. Homeschooling grew at an annual rate of 2% to 8%, but saw a dramatic increase in 2020-2021.
Homeschooling in the Netherlands
The Netherlands also saw an increase in homeschooling, mainly due to the corona situation. In 2021, there were approximately 16,000 homeschooled students. This number has probably increased.
| Schooljaar | Vrijstelling Art. 5 sub a | Vrijstelling Art. 5 sub b | Vrijstelling Art. 5 sub c |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-2014 | 4444 | 575 | 7933 |
| 2014-2015 | 5077 | 619 | 8215 |
| 2015-2016 | 5537 | 705 | 8376 |
| 2016-2017 | 5736 | 813 | 8928 |
| 2017-2018 | 5576 | 931 | 8850 |
| 2018-2019 | 6022 | 1097 | 8830 |
| 2019-2020 | 6361 | 1280 | 8199 |
| 2020-2021 | 7083 | 1556 | 7916 |
Diversity in homeschooling
A wide variety of people choose to homeschool. This includes families of different religious, political, economic backgrounds and ethnicities. In the US, 41% of homeschooled students are of non-white or Hispanic descent.
Savings for taxpayers
Homeschooling leads to big savings for US taxpayers. The 3.7 million homeschooled students in 2020-2021 saved more than $56 billion. Homeschooling families spend an average of $600 per student per year.
Growing popularity among minorities
Homeschooling is gaining popularity among minorities. About 41% of homeschooling families are non-white or Hispanic. More than 9 million Americans have experience with homeschooling.
Reasons for homeschooling
Parents choose homeschooling for various reasons. This includes adapting the curriculum, improving family relationships and providing a safer environment. Transfer of values and protection against racism are also important reasons.
Homeschooling academic performance
Homeschooled students often perform better than public school students. Regardless of parents’ education or family income, homeschooled students score higher on standardized tests.
Social and psychological development
Homeschooled students often do better socially and psychologically. They are involved in community activities and develop strong social skills.
Success in the real world
Homeschooled adults often succeed in the real world. They are socially involved and contribute to society.
Conclusion and future of homeschooling
Homeschooling can cause the positive qualities observed in the study. Future research could shed more light on this relationship.
Note: This fact sheet is based on data from various sources and studies.