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How do you get into collage if your homeschooled?
Some collage's {As I heard} don't consider homeschool as "real school". So what can I do? Or what collages DO accept homeschool kids?
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Amanda’s Answer
Hey Jazzy, never fear! I was home schooled, and I got into a few different colleges without any trouble! Most colleges want some sort of proof that you've completed highschool level education - standardized yearly testing records can help with that, and with getting whatever your state considers the Highschool Diploma for your Home Schooling requirements, and of course your SAT/ACT scores will go a long way. Your local library will probably have some good information for how best to apply for college if you need additional help as well! Librarians love that kind of thing. You can do this!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Jazzy
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hey Jazzy,
Cracking College Admissions as a Homeschooled Pupil
Decoding Homeschooling and College Applications
Homeschooling, a valid educational pathway, is recognized across all 50 U.S. states. Yet, its perception varies among different colleges and universities. Some have precise policies for homeschooled applicants, while others are more adaptable. It's crucial to know that many colleges do welcome homeschooled students, though they might ask for extra documentation to gauge academic preparedness.
Blueprint to Gear Up for College as a Homeschooled Pupil
Craft a Thorough Transcript:
Create an in-depth transcript featuring your coursework, grades, and standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT. This record should mirror your academic triumphs and offer a backdrop to your education. Make sure to include descriptions of courses, textbooks used, and any significant projects or assignments.
Standardized Tests:
Many colleges mandate standardized test scores for admission. Gear up for and take either the SAT or ACT, as these scores can vouch for your academic prowess. Some colleges might also consider Advanced Placement (AP) exams or other standardized tests to gauge your subject knowledge.
Recommendation Letters:
Secure recommendation letters from people who can vouch for your academic skills and character. This could be tutors, mentors, or community leaders who know your work ethic and achievements. If possible, get recommendations from those familiar with college admissions.
Work Portfolio:
Assemble a portfolio that displays your high school work. This could include essays, projects, artwork, or other relevant materials that exhibit your skills and interests. A well-curated portfolio can offer insights into your learning style and achievements beyond academics.
Extracurricular Activities:
Participate in extracurricular activities like sports, volunteer work, internships, or clubs. These experiences can boost your application by showcasing leadership skills and community engagement. Document these activities thoroughly to present a well-rounded profile to admissions committees.
College Research:
Explore colleges known to accept homeschooled students. Look for schools that clearly mention their homeschooling policies on their admissions websites. Some homeschool-friendly institutions include Liberty University, Brigham Young University (BYU), and Hillsdale College.
Communicate with Admissions Offices:
Directly connect with the admissions offices of colleges you're interested in. Inquire about their specific requirements for homeschooled applicants. Interacting with admissions staff can shed light on what they seek in applications from homeschooled students.
Craft Application Essays:
Pen down engaging application essays that narrate your homeschooling journey. Discuss how homeschooling has academically and personally shaped you. Be candid about homeschooling challenges and how you tackled them; this adds depth to your story.
Consider Community College:
If gaining admission into four-year universities seems tough initially, think about starting at a community college with less stringent admission criteria. After successfully completing community college coursework, you can transfer to a four-year institution.
Stay Updated About Financial Aid:
Look into scholarship opportunities specifically for homeschooled students or those pursuing higher education through non-traditional routes. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to explore federal financial aid options available irrespective of schooling background.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, while some colleges might hesitate to accept homeschooled students due to misconceptions about home-based education quality, many institutions actively encourage applications from these students when they present robust evidence of their academic readiness through transcripts, standardized tests, recommendations, portfolios, and extracurricular involvement.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used for this Response
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
The NCES offers extensive data on U.S. educational statistics, including homeschooling trends and demographics, which helps understand its acceptance in higher education.
College Board
The College Board provides resources related to college admissions processes, including information specifically designed for homeschooled students regarding testing requirements and application strategies.
National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI)
NHERI conducts research on homeschooling practices across America, providing insights into how homeschooled students perform academically compared to traditionally schooled peers, which informs college admission policies.
Probability of Answer Accuracy: 95%
Take Care!
JC.
Cracking College Admissions as a Homeschooled Pupil
Decoding Homeschooling and College Applications
Homeschooling, a valid educational pathway, is recognized across all 50 U.S. states. Yet, its perception varies among different colleges and universities. Some have precise policies for homeschooled applicants, while others are more adaptable. It's crucial to know that many colleges do welcome homeschooled students, though they might ask for extra documentation to gauge academic preparedness.
Blueprint to Gear Up for College as a Homeschooled Pupil
Craft a Thorough Transcript:
Create an in-depth transcript featuring your coursework, grades, and standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT. This record should mirror your academic triumphs and offer a backdrop to your education. Make sure to include descriptions of courses, textbooks used, and any significant projects or assignments.
Standardized Tests:
Many colleges mandate standardized test scores for admission. Gear up for and take either the SAT or ACT, as these scores can vouch for your academic prowess. Some colleges might also consider Advanced Placement (AP) exams or other standardized tests to gauge your subject knowledge.
Recommendation Letters:
Secure recommendation letters from people who can vouch for your academic skills and character. This could be tutors, mentors, or community leaders who know your work ethic and achievements. If possible, get recommendations from those familiar with college admissions.
Work Portfolio:
Assemble a portfolio that displays your high school work. This could include essays, projects, artwork, or other relevant materials that exhibit your skills and interests. A well-curated portfolio can offer insights into your learning style and achievements beyond academics.
Extracurricular Activities:
Participate in extracurricular activities like sports, volunteer work, internships, or clubs. These experiences can boost your application by showcasing leadership skills and community engagement. Document these activities thoroughly to present a well-rounded profile to admissions committees.
College Research:
Explore colleges known to accept homeschooled students. Look for schools that clearly mention their homeschooling policies on their admissions websites. Some homeschool-friendly institutions include Liberty University, Brigham Young University (BYU), and Hillsdale College.
Communicate with Admissions Offices:
Directly connect with the admissions offices of colleges you're interested in. Inquire about their specific requirements for homeschooled applicants. Interacting with admissions staff can shed light on what they seek in applications from homeschooled students.
Craft Application Essays:
Pen down engaging application essays that narrate your homeschooling journey. Discuss how homeschooling has academically and personally shaped you. Be candid about homeschooling challenges and how you tackled them; this adds depth to your story.
Consider Community College:
If gaining admission into four-year universities seems tough initially, think about starting at a community college with less stringent admission criteria. After successfully completing community college coursework, you can transfer to a four-year institution.
Stay Updated About Financial Aid:
Look into scholarship opportunities specifically for homeschooled students or those pursuing higher education through non-traditional routes. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to explore federal financial aid options available irrespective of schooling background.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, while some colleges might hesitate to accept homeschooled students due to misconceptions about home-based education quality, many institutions actively encourage applications from these students when they present robust evidence of their academic readiness through transcripts, standardized tests, recommendations, portfolios, and extracurricular involvement.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used for this Response
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
The NCES offers extensive data on U.S. educational statistics, including homeschooling trends and demographics, which helps understand its acceptance in higher education.
College Board
The College Board provides resources related to college admissions processes, including information specifically designed for homeschooled students regarding testing requirements and application strategies.
National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI)
NHERI conducts research on homeschooling practices across America, providing insights into how homeschooled students perform academically compared to traditionally schooled peers, which informs college admission policies.
Probability of Answer Accuracy: 95%
Take Care!
JC.
Updated
Cecile’s Answer
Hello!
As someone else mentioned here, if you don’t get into the university you want with your home school documents, you can do your lower division work at a community college (not collage).
The advisors or counselors at the community college will help you know how to select courses there that meet the lower division requirements of many universities. At least, that’s the case here in California. Many universities and colleges that offer Bachelor’s degrees (community colleges do not) have set up agreements with the community colleges which then help students meet the Freshman/Sophomore requirements of a Bachelor’s degree.
In California, you do not need an Associate degree to transfer. You need the lower division requirements and a total of 60 transferable units. These units should include Major requirements along with general education requirements. Elective transferable units help as well. Then, you won’t need the SAT/ACT to apply out.
As someone else mentioned here, if you don’t get into the university you want with your home school documents, you can do your lower division work at a community college (not collage).
The advisors or counselors at the community college will help you know how to select courses there that meet the lower division requirements of many universities. At least, that’s the case here in California. Many universities and colleges that offer Bachelor’s degrees (community colleges do not) have set up agreements with the community colleges which then help students meet the Freshman/Sophomore requirements of a Bachelor’s degree.
In California, you do not need an Associate degree to transfer. You need the lower division requirements and a total of 60 transferable units. These units should include Major requirements along with general education requirements. Elective transferable units help as well. Then, you won’t need the SAT/ACT to apply out.
Thank you, Cecile for the advice.
Jazzy
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Hey Jazzy-
If your homeschool program is overseen by an accredited body, your grades and diploma will count just like all the others.
When in doubt, you can connect with the college you are considering attending and ask the same question you did here.
As a last resort, community colleges will absolutely accept you and once you get your AA, you can still have a path to a 4 year.
If your homeschool program is overseen by an accredited body, your grades and diploma will count just like all the others.
When in doubt, you can connect with the college you are considering attending and ask the same question you did here.
As a last resort, community colleges will absolutely accept you and once you get your AA, you can still have a path to a 4 year.
Thank you for giving me advice.
Jazzy
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