We are not associated with HSLDA but as homeschoolers we think it is very important to have even a basic paid membership to keep up with homeschool laws and to its handy to have if you need legal help with your homeschooling.
Watch overview video here.
Securing a Curriculum Grant from HSLDA can significantly ease the financial burden of homeschooling, but it requires meticulous preparation and adherence to specific criteria. The application process is comprehensive, ensuring that the grants are awarded to families who genuinely need them and can demonstrate their commitment to homeschooling. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, documentation, and tips to maximize your chances of a successful application.
Before diving into the application, ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements. Key criteria include active membership with HSLDA which is around $15 month ( as of 2025). If you can not afford the $15 memebership you can apply for assistance to pay for this monthly fee. You will also need proof of significant financial need, and you need to have been homeschooling at least one child aged 6 to 19 for a minimum of three months. Importantly, your homeschooling efforts should be privately funded without any public funds, including ESAs. Additionally, you must have legal custody of the child or children being homeschooled. Meeting these criteria is the first step towards qualifying for the grant.
Homeschool Documentation
Accurate homeschooling documentation is crucial for your application. Instead of the Notice of Intent itself, you should provide a dated letter, email, receipt, or acknowledgment of the Notice. This can be obtained from your state, county, school district, or superintendent. If you’re withdrawing your children from a public or private school, similar documentation is required. Other acceptable documents include an official letter from a homeschool co-op or end-of-year assessments.
Financial Documentation
Demonstrating financial need is a pivotal part of the application. You must provide a copy of your recent IRS Form 1040, current pay stubs, and Social Security statements. Additional documents might include letters about food stamps, housing assistance, and any child support or alimony received. It’s also advisable to include any other forms of financial support, such as letters from a church or community organization. (See the HSLDA website for more information)
Additional Documents
Depending on your circumstances, additional documents might be necessary. For families seeking special needs curriculum or therapy, a letter from a medical professional is required. Widows or widowers should provide a spouse’s death certificate, and military families need documentation of current military status. These documents ensure that the grant can be tailored to meet specific needs.
Grant Application Tips and Eligible Items
When filling out your application, list all educational items for purchase or reimbursement. This should include the company name, item description, and total cost. Eligible items typically cover curriculum materials, school supplies, and educational technology. However, items like personal growth materials or school furniture are ineligible. Flexibility is allowed in the final purchases as long as they align with eligibility requirements.
Character References
Two character references are required to vouch for your integrity and homeschooling commitment. These references should not be closely related to you or recent grant applicants. Provide full contact details and ensure the references can speak credibly about your family situation. Ideally, these individuals should be part of your homeschooling or faith community.
Application Periods and Timeline
The application process opens three times a year, with specific dates in winter, spring, and fall. After submission, your references will be contacted, and the review period extends until October 31. Notifications are sent via email, and if approved, grant checks are dispatched by November 15. Be aware that the grant period might be shortened if funds are limited, but updates will be communicated promptly.
Post-Approval: Getting Started with Your Grant
Upon receiving grant approval, you can plan your purchases according to the guidelines. The grant focuses on curriculum and educational resources, so it’s crucial to submit receipts after using the funds. Additionally, take advantage of the discounts offered by many curriculum publishers to stretch your grant further.
Applying for an HSLDA Curriculum Grant requires careful attention to detail and thorough documentation. By ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, and following the application tips, you can enhance your chances of receiving financial support for your homeschooling journey. Remember to maintain open communication with your references and stay informed about application timelines to ensure a smooth process.
Click the button to go directly to HSLDA’s website
