How to Homeschool Legally in Chile

Nov 2, 2024

How to Homeschool Legally in Chile

In Chile, the Constitution and the General Education Law establish that both elementary and secondary education are compulsory. At the same time, the system leaves some room for education outside formal institutions, as long as certain legal requirements are met.

Legal considerations

Scope of compulsory schooling

According to Article 19 of the Chilean Constitution, the right to education is compulsory at the elementary and secondary levels, and the State must ensure free access. Compulsory schooling extends through secondary education, while early childhood education is not mandatory.

Legal status

#### Constitution of the Republic of Chile

Right to education: Parents have the primary right and duty to educate their children. The State must promote early childhood education and fund elementary and secondary schooling.

Freedom of teaching: Parents may choose an educational institution or educate outside formal institutions, as long as required standards are met.

#### General Education Law

Definition of education: Education is understood as a lifelong learning process. It may take place through formal, non-formal, or informal education.

Official recognition: The law allows institutions without official certification to seek recognition under certain conditions after six years of successful operation.

#### Decree No. 2272

This decree establishes procedures for the recognition of studies, including:

Convalidation: recognition of studies completed abroad.

Validation: certification by exams for people without official studies or for foreign students from countries without an agreement with Chile.

How are studies accredited?

Homeschooled students can obtain certification through:

Validation exams: these allow students to accredit elementary and secondary studies. Adults over 18 may also take equivalency exams for employment purposes.

Resources

Associations, networks, and groups

These organizations offer support and resources to homeschooling families in Chile:

Homeschooling Chile

Educando en casa, educando en comunidad

Legislative initiatives

There are currently no major homeschooling bills under discussion, but it is wise to review the legal landscape periodically in case this changes.

Academic articles

No specific studies were listed in the source document, but it is still advisable to review research on the educational impact of homeschooling in Chile.

Press coverage

The source material did not include press notes, but families should keep an eye on national media for legal updates and public debate related to homeschooling in Chile.

Credits

This article was prepared using the OLASE report (Observatorio Latinoamericano de Aprendizajes Sin Escuela) as its main source.