Wisconsin School Attendance Age
Wisconsin school attendance age: when compulsory education starts, the legal dropout age, and how long public school is available.
Wisconsin sets the age at which a child must start school and the age at which compulsory attendance ends. The figures below come from the state education code.
Starting age
In Wisconsin, a child must be enrolled in school by age 6. Most states start compulsory attendance at 6, though a few begin at 5 or 7.
Leaving age
A student may legally leave school at age 18 in Wisconsin. This is the age at which compulsory attendance ends — dropping out earlier can carry truancy consequences.
Maximum age
Public school is generally available in Wisconsin through age 20. Some students stay past the compulsory-leaving age for adult education, special education, or to finish a diploma — check your local district for the exact ceiling.
Exemptions
Homeschool and private school are recognized alternatives. Each state sets its own notice and assessment rules for homeschooling, so confirm the filing steps with your state education agency.
Source
Statute: Wis. Stat. § 118.15. Last verified: 2026. Compulsory ages change when states amend education law — confirm the current rule with the Wisconsin Department of Education before relying on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age does my child have to start school in Wisconsin?
Compulsory attendance begins at age 6 in Wisconsin. Most families enroll in kindergarten a year or two before that, but the legal requirement starts at 6.
What age can a student drop out of school in Wisconsin?
A student may legally leave school at age 18 in Wisconsin. Leaving earlier usually triggers truancy rules unless an approved exemption applies.
Can my child stay in public school past the leaving age in Wisconsin?
Often yes — public school in Wisconsin is generally available through age 20, and some programs (adult ed, special ed) allow eligible students to continue. Ask your district for specifics.