10 answers
Kylie
Student
Joliet, Illinois
1
Question
Asked
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How do I get ready?
How do I build a good college application? What should I do being homeschooled?
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10 answers
Deborah Christopher-Adeniji
Researcher
73
Answers
Nigeria
Updated
Deborah’s Answer
Building a strong college application, especially when you're homeschooled, requires careful planning and attention to detail. Start by ensuring your academic records are well-documented, including transcripts, course descriptions, and standardized test scores if required. Showcase your unique homeschooling experience by highlighting the flexibility and self-discipline it has instilled in you, along with any specialized or extracurricular activities you've pursued. Seek out recommendation letters from teachers, tutors, or mentors who can speak to your academic abilities and character.
Additionally, demonstrate your passion and commitment to your chosen field through relevant projects, volunteer work, or internships. Craft a compelling personal essay that tells your story and explains why you're a great fit for the college.
Lastly, research colleges that value homeschool applicants and reach out to admissions offices with any questions. By presenting a well-rounded and authentic application, you can stand out and increase your chances of acceptance. Good luck
Additionally, demonstrate your passion and commitment to your chosen field through relevant projects, volunteer work, or internships. Craft a compelling personal essay that tells your story and explains why you're a great fit for the college.
Lastly, research colleges that value homeschool applicants and reach out to admissions offices with any questions. By presenting a well-rounded and authentic application, you can stand out and increase your chances of acceptance. Good luck
Katia Ratkovich
Recruitment
10
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Katia’s Answer
Great question! Homeschool students can certainly stand out on college applications by highlighting their unique educational experiences. Here are my recommendations:
1) Provide context for your homeschool curriculum, including any advanced or specialized courses. As part of your homeschooling, did you get to take any courses that are not typically offered in the general high school curriculum? Perhaps a specialty language or a unique history or science class? If you've taken college-level courses (e.g., through a local college or online), mention them in your application to show your readiness for college-level work.
2) Get some great recommendation letters! This could be a homeschool teacher, a tutor, an employer, or a community leader. Do you have extracurriculars like a volunteer engagement or do you have an after school job? These would be great places to identify someone who could write a recommendation.
3) Use your personal statement or essays to explain your homeschooling experience and how it has contributed to your educational goals. Discuss what you've learned from homeschooling and how it has prepared you for college. This could be how it has prepared you academically, as well as emotionally and in terms of personal growth. Also, if you have unique talents or skills (e.g., music, art, sports, coding), showcase them. Include awards, competitions, or performances that highlight your abilities.
4) In your essay, don't be afraid to call out how you have overcome any personal challenges. This is a great opportunity to discuss how you endured and grew from the experience showing your ability to be resilient.
5) While not all colleges necessarily require them, consider taking standardized tests like the SAT or ACT to provide an objective measure of your academic abilities.
Hope these help!
1) Provide context for your homeschool curriculum, including any advanced or specialized courses. As part of your homeschooling, did you get to take any courses that are not typically offered in the general high school curriculum? Perhaps a specialty language or a unique history or science class? If you've taken college-level courses (e.g., through a local college or online), mention them in your application to show your readiness for college-level work.
2) Get some great recommendation letters! This could be a homeschool teacher, a tutor, an employer, or a community leader. Do you have extracurriculars like a volunteer engagement or do you have an after school job? These would be great places to identify someone who could write a recommendation.
3) Use your personal statement or essays to explain your homeschooling experience and how it has contributed to your educational goals. Discuss what you've learned from homeschooling and how it has prepared you for college. This could be how it has prepared you academically, as well as emotionally and in terms of personal growth. Also, if you have unique talents or skills (e.g., music, art, sports, coding), showcase them. Include awards, competitions, or performances that highlight your abilities.
4) In your essay, don't be afraid to call out how you have overcome any personal challenges. This is a great opportunity to discuss how you endured and grew from the experience showing your ability to be resilient.
5) While not all colleges necessarily require them, consider taking standardized tests like the SAT or ACT to provide an objective measure of your academic abilities.
Hope these help!
Nicole Damour
Operations Director
1
Answer
Worcester, Massachusetts
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Homeschooling comes with numerous benefits, so don't hesitate to emphasize the ones you appreciate the most. It's also crucial to engage in activities outside of academics and contribute volunteer hours. This way, you'll present yourself as a well-rounded student.
MD Rabbi Hossain Anik
Internship
7
Answers
Chandpur, Chittagong Division
Updated
MD Rabbi Hossain’s Answer
As a homeschooled I think you can follow this steps for college application:
1. Understand admissions requirements.
2. Provide context in your application.
3. Take community college courses.
4. Avoid letters of recommendation from family.
5. Build a network of support.
1. Understand admissions requirements.
2. Provide context in your application.
3. Take community college courses.
4. Avoid letters of recommendation from family.
5. Build a network of support.
Emma Verde
Physical Therapist
171
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Building a robust college application as a homeschooled student is an exciting journey that requires a well-rounded strategy. Begin by sticking to a challenging academic curriculum that matches your chosen major, diligently documenting your coursework, and confidently tackling standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. Immerse yourself in extracurricular activities, clubs, or community service projects that not only reflect your passions but also highlight your leadership skills.
Secure influential recommendation letters, craft an engaging personal statement or essay, and provide an in-depth transcript along with course descriptions. Assemble a portfolio that proudly displays your extracurricular accomplishments and consider expressing your enthusiasm for colleges through visits and interviews.
Explore scholarship opportunities tailored for homeschooled students, and customize your applications to meet the distinct requirements of each college. Lastly, don't hesitate to seek advice from homeschool support groups or college counselors to effectively steer your way through the application process. You've got this!
Secure influential recommendation letters, craft an engaging personal statement or essay, and provide an in-depth transcript along with course descriptions. Assemble a portfolio that proudly displays your extracurricular accomplishments and consider expressing your enthusiasm for colleges through visits and interviews.
Explore scholarship opportunities tailored for homeschooled students, and customize your applications to meet the distinct requirements of each college. Lastly, don't hesitate to seek advice from homeschool support groups or college counselors to effectively steer your way through the application process. You've got this!
Sarah Muckler-Visser
Sales & Marketing
2
Answers
Tampacan
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
My advice would be to assure you have other activities that show a well rounded array of things such as a sports team, Girl Scouts, local charity volunteering, 4H, chess club, a language club etc. Leadership positions can also be helpful. I had to work during school, my family didn’t have any money so I needed to work vs volunteering. Looking for jobs that are close to you but that could also provide some professional training too such as a doctors office or a job that can be on a resume to show you were committed to working showing 1-2 years of work.
See if Girl Scouts allows for an independent membership if you don’t have a group near you
Check out jobs at a local professional place around you
Seek out volunteering at a place that you’re interested in, Humane society, or 4H or whatever interests you
Boys and Girls Clubs can offer various programs
Start researching applications and look at samples of what other people have done for college applications
Sarah recommends the following next steps:
Mackenzie Ward
associate
103
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Mackenzie’s Answer
Building a strong college application as a homeschooled student is certainly achievable. Homeschooled students often have unique experiences and qualities to showcase. Here are some steps to help you create a compelling college application:
1. **Transcripts and Course Descriptions**:
- Create a detailed high school transcript that includes all the courses you've taken, grades earned, and the number of credits for each course. Be sure to provide course descriptions that outline the content and materials used in your homeschool curriculum.
2. **Standardized Testing**:
- Take standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. Many colleges require these scores, and they can provide an objective measure of your academic abilities. Check the admission requirements of the colleges you're interested in to see if standardized tests are required.
3. **Extracurricular Activities**:
- Highlight your extracurricular activities. Homeschooled students often have flexibility to pursue interests outside of traditional school hours. Showcase your involvement in clubs, sports, community service, part-time jobs, or any other activities that demonstrate your skills and passions.
4. **Recommendation Letters**:
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation. Ask teachers, mentors, or supervisors who know you well to write letters that speak to your character, work ethic, and achievements.
5. **Personal Statement/Essays**:
- Write compelling personal statements and essays. Use these essays to provide insight into your homeschooling experience, your motivations, and how you've grown as a student and individual. Explain why you're interested in the colleges you're applying to.
6. **Portfolio or Supplemental Materials**:
- If applicable, create a portfolio showcasing your work in areas like art, music, writing, or other talents. Supplemental materials can help colleges understand your abilities and passions.
7. **Interviews**:
- If offered the opportunity, consider participating in interviews with admissions representatives or alumni. Use this as a chance to discuss your homeschooling experience, your academic interests, and your fit with the college.
8. **Standardized Subject Tests**:
- Some colleges may require or recommend SAT Subject Tests. If applicable, take these tests and submit scores that align with your academic strengths.
9. **Dual Enrollment or College Courses**:
- If you've taken dual enrollment courses or college-level courses at a local community college or university, include this information on your application to demonstrate your ability to succeed in a college environment.
10. **Explain Your Homeschooling Experience**:
- In your application, provide context for your homeschooling experience. Explain who oversaw your education, what curriculum you followed, and how you met state or local education requirements (if applicable).
11. **Showcase Unique Experiences**:
- Emphasize the unique opportunities you had as a homeschooled student, such as personalized learning, independent research projects, or travel experiences that contributed to your education.
12. **Demonstrate Independence and Self-Motivation**:
- Highlight your ability to take ownership of your education. Discuss how you managed your time, set goals, and sought out resources independently.
13. **Interview Homeschool Community Members**:
- Consider asking a homeschool group leader, co-op teacher, or educational advisor to provide a letter of recommendation or a reference that can speak to your homeschooling experience.
14. **Check Requirements**: Be sure to carefully review the admission requirements of each college you're applying to. Some colleges have specific guidelines or expectations for homeschooled applicants.
15. **Early Application**: Consider applying early to some colleges, as this can demonstrate your commitment and interest in attending.
16. **Seek Guidance**: Don't hesitate to seek guidance from homeschool organizations, college counselors, or mentors who can provide advice and support throughout the application process.
Remember that each college has its own admission criteria and values. Tailor your application to showcase your strengths and unique qualities, and be transparent about your homeschooling experience. Your ability to demonstrate your readiness for college, your passion for learning, and your potential for success will be key factors in a successful application.
1. **Transcripts and Course Descriptions**:
- Create a detailed high school transcript that includes all the courses you've taken, grades earned, and the number of credits for each course. Be sure to provide course descriptions that outline the content and materials used in your homeschool curriculum.
2. **Standardized Testing**:
- Take standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. Many colleges require these scores, and they can provide an objective measure of your academic abilities. Check the admission requirements of the colleges you're interested in to see if standardized tests are required.
3. **Extracurricular Activities**:
- Highlight your extracurricular activities. Homeschooled students often have flexibility to pursue interests outside of traditional school hours. Showcase your involvement in clubs, sports, community service, part-time jobs, or any other activities that demonstrate your skills and passions.
4. **Recommendation Letters**:
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation. Ask teachers, mentors, or supervisors who know you well to write letters that speak to your character, work ethic, and achievements.
5. **Personal Statement/Essays**:
- Write compelling personal statements and essays. Use these essays to provide insight into your homeschooling experience, your motivations, and how you've grown as a student and individual. Explain why you're interested in the colleges you're applying to.
6. **Portfolio or Supplemental Materials**:
- If applicable, create a portfolio showcasing your work in areas like art, music, writing, or other talents. Supplemental materials can help colleges understand your abilities and passions.
7. **Interviews**:
- If offered the opportunity, consider participating in interviews with admissions representatives or alumni. Use this as a chance to discuss your homeschooling experience, your academic interests, and your fit with the college.
8. **Standardized Subject Tests**:
- Some colleges may require or recommend SAT Subject Tests. If applicable, take these tests and submit scores that align with your academic strengths.
9. **Dual Enrollment or College Courses**:
- If you've taken dual enrollment courses or college-level courses at a local community college or university, include this information on your application to demonstrate your ability to succeed in a college environment.
10. **Explain Your Homeschooling Experience**:
- In your application, provide context for your homeschooling experience. Explain who oversaw your education, what curriculum you followed, and how you met state or local education requirements (if applicable).
11. **Showcase Unique Experiences**:
- Emphasize the unique opportunities you had as a homeschooled student, such as personalized learning, independent research projects, or travel experiences that contributed to your education.
12. **Demonstrate Independence and Self-Motivation**:
- Highlight your ability to take ownership of your education. Discuss how you managed your time, set goals, and sought out resources independently.
13. **Interview Homeschool Community Members**:
- Consider asking a homeschool group leader, co-op teacher, or educational advisor to provide a letter of recommendation or a reference that can speak to your homeschooling experience.
14. **Check Requirements**: Be sure to carefully review the admission requirements of each college you're applying to. Some colleges have specific guidelines or expectations for homeschooled applicants.
15. **Early Application**: Consider applying early to some colleges, as this can demonstrate your commitment and interest in attending.
16. **Seek Guidance**: Don't hesitate to seek guidance from homeschool organizations, college counselors, or mentors who can provide advice and support throughout the application process.
Remember that each college has its own admission criteria and values. Tailor your application to showcase your strengths and unique qualities, and be transparent about your homeschooling experience. Your ability to demonstrate your readiness for college, your passion for learning, and your potential for success will be key factors in a successful application.
Abby Pinto
Talent development
4
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Abby’s Answer
Colleges are keen to understand not only the educational and extracurricular activities you've engaged in, but also the reasons behind your choices and the knowledge you've gained from them. This insight helps them get a better picture of who you are as an individual. From my conversations with admissions counselors, it's clear that depth carries weight. In essence, demonstrating dedication to a handful of significant activities is more impactful than spreading yourself thin across numerous pursuits just to exhibit variety.
Moreover, it's beneficial to meticulously research colleges to identify those that align with your genuine interests. The more convincingly you can express why a particular school suits your interests, the more compelling your application will be. Ideally, you'll end up with a range of educational choices that truly excite you.
Moreover, it's beneficial to meticulously research colleges to identify those that align with your genuine interests. The more convincingly you can express why a particular school suits your interests, the more compelling your application will be. Ideally, you'll end up with a range of educational choices that truly excite you.
Idillio Cilfone
NOC Manager
9
Answers
Sea Girt, New Jersey
Updated
Idillio’s Answer
Create a robust and consistent academic program that ideally reflects your identity and the educational goals you're aiming for. It's also crucial to explore beyond your local surroundings and even abroad. This could include trips, experiences, interactions, studies, and readings. Learn a second language and educate yourself about diverse cultures and their histories. Equally important is engaging with your local community, experiencing teamwork, and sharing your knowledge to gain more. College admissions teams are looking for potential students who provide a rich soil for further growth and development.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Preparing a strong college application as a homeschooled student is both achievable and rewarding. Here are some steps and strategies to help you build an impressive college application:
1. **Plan Early**: Start planning for college well in advance. Begin by researching colleges and universities that align with your interests and goals. Consider factors like location, size, academic programs, and extracurricular opportunities.
2. **Transcripts and Documentation**: Homeschoolers should maintain detailed transcripts. Record the courses you've completed, grades received, and the textbooks or resources used. If possible, use a grading system that colleges can easily understand.
3. **Standardized Tests**: Check the admission requirements of your target colleges regarding standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Take these tests and prepare thoroughly to achieve competitive scores.
4. **Letters of Recommendation**: Build strong relationships with teachers, mentors, or individuals who can write compelling letters of recommendation. They can speak to your academic abilities and character.
5. **Extracurricular Activities**: Engage in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your interests, skills, and leadership abilities. These could include sports, clubs, community service, or pursuing hobbies and passions.
6. **Dual Enrollment**: If possible, consider enrolling in local community college courses or taking online college-level classes. This demonstrates your ability to excel in a college-level environment.
7. **Independent Projects**: Showcase any independent research, projects, or achievements that highlight your intellectual curiosity and drive. These can set you apart from other applicants.
8. **Personal Statement**: Write a compelling personal statement or essay that highlights your unique background and goals. Explain why you chose homeschooling and how it has prepared you for college.
9. **Interviews**: If interviews are part of the admission process, practice your interview skills. Be ready to discuss your homeschooling experience and why you're a good fit for the college.
10. **Explain Homeschooling**: In your application, provide context for your homeschooling experience. Explain your curriculum, the role of your parents or guardians, and any homeschool co-ops or support groups you've been a part of.
11. **Portfolio**: Depending on your field of interest, consider creating a portfolio showcasing your best work, whether it's in the arts, writing, or other creative endeavors.
12. **Stay Organized**: Keep all your records, documents, and application materials organized. Meet deadlines and ensure that your application is complete and error-free.
13. **Seek Guidance**: Don't hesitate to seek advice from college counselors or admissions professionals. Many colleges have specific admissions guidelines for homeschooled applicants.
14. **Visit Colleges**: Whenever possible, visit the colleges you're interested in. Attend information sessions, tours, and interact with current students to get a sense of campus life.
15. **Apply Widely**: Apply to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools. This increases your chances of acceptance and provides options to choose from.
16. **Follow Up**: After submitting your applications, follow up with colleges to ensure they've received all required documents and transcripts.
Remember that homeschooled applicants bring unique strengths, such as self-motivation, independence, and a personalized educational experience. Highlight these qualities in your application to demonstrate your readiness for college. Each application is an opportunity to showcase your abilities, so take the time to craft a compelling narrative that tells your educational journey and future aspirations. Good luck with your college application process!
1. **Plan Early**: Start planning for college well in advance. Begin by researching colleges and universities that align with your interests and goals. Consider factors like location, size, academic programs, and extracurricular opportunities.
2. **Transcripts and Documentation**: Homeschoolers should maintain detailed transcripts. Record the courses you've completed, grades received, and the textbooks or resources used. If possible, use a grading system that colleges can easily understand.
3. **Standardized Tests**: Check the admission requirements of your target colleges regarding standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Take these tests and prepare thoroughly to achieve competitive scores.
4. **Letters of Recommendation**: Build strong relationships with teachers, mentors, or individuals who can write compelling letters of recommendation. They can speak to your academic abilities and character.
5. **Extracurricular Activities**: Engage in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your interests, skills, and leadership abilities. These could include sports, clubs, community service, or pursuing hobbies and passions.
6. **Dual Enrollment**: If possible, consider enrolling in local community college courses or taking online college-level classes. This demonstrates your ability to excel in a college-level environment.
7. **Independent Projects**: Showcase any independent research, projects, or achievements that highlight your intellectual curiosity and drive. These can set you apart from other applicants.
8. **Personal Statement**: Write a compelling personal statement or essay that highlights your unique background and goals. Explain why you chose homeschooling and how it has prepared you for college.
9. **Interviews**: If interviews are part of the admission process, practice your interview skills. Be ready to discuss your homeschooling experience and why you're a good fit for the college.
10. **Explain Homeschooling**: In your application, provide context for your homeschooling experience. Explain your curriculum, the role of your parents or guardians, and any homeschool co-ops or support groups you've been a part of.
11. **Portfolio**: Depending on your field of interest, consider creating a portfolio showcasing your best work, whether it's in the arts, writing, or other creative endeavors.
12. **Stay Organized**: Keep all your records, documents, and application materials organized. Meet deadlines and ensure that your application is complete and error-free.
13. **Seek Guidance**: Don't hesitate to seek advice from college counselors or admissions professionals. Many colleges have specific admissions guidelines for homeschooled applicants.
14. **Visit Colleges**: Whenever possible, visit the colleges you're interested in. Attend information sessions, tours, and interact with current students to get a sense of campus life.
15. **Apply Widely**: Apply to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools. This increases your chances of acceptance and provides options to choose from.
16. **Follow Up**: After submitting your applications, follow up with colleges to ensure they've received all required documents and transcripts.
Remember that homeschooled applicants bring unique strengths, such as self-motivation, independence, and a personalized educational experience. Highlight these qualities in your application to demonstrate your readiness for college. Each application is an opportunity to showcase your abilities, so take the time to craft a compelling narrative that tells your educational journey and future aspirations. Good luck with your college application process!