Legal Status of Homeschooling in Hong Kong

Legal Status of Homeschooling in Hong Kong

1. Not prohibited by law: Homeschooling is not against the law in Hong Kong. The Education Bureau (EDB) acknowledges it as a valid educational option. 

2. Compulsory education requirement: Children aged 6 to 15 are required to receive education. Parents must ensure their children are being educated during this period, whether through formal schooling or homeschooling. 

3. When students reach the age of 15, no EDB officer will follow up on your homeschool case.

Notification to EDB

Notification to the EDB is not mandatory. For students transitioning from mainstream schools, the EDB will automatically follow up.

Monitoring and Oversight

1. The EDB may conduct case-by-case reviews and request documentation of the child’s learning progress and socialization. 

2. In rare cases, if the EDB believes the child’s education is inadequate, they may issue an attendance order requiring the child to attend school.

Homeschool Curriculum Flexibility

Parents can design their own curriculum, but it is advisable to align with local educational standards or internationally recognized programs like IGCSE or A-levels.

Homeschool Support Networks

The Hong Kong Homeschool Association founded by Dr Lai provides support to homeschool families. Please join the Hong Kong Homeschool Association WhatsApp Group: Dr. Lai also provides free IGCSE Math classes to homeschool students and out-of-school students. Contact Dr. Lai at hsa.hk for details.

Written By Dr. Lai Mei Kei Vivien