Homeschooling is becoming increasingly popular among parents, who have the means and desire to provide their child with alternate or additional education. However, when this is the case, some parents may wonder how their child can obtain a diploma if their education was handled through homeschooling. There are a few options available to make sure your homeschooled child can obtain the appropriate diploma to get them started in their education and career.
What Is the Difference Between a General Education Diploma and a Homeschool Diploma?
The primary distinction between a General Education Diploma (GED) and a homeschool diploma is that the two were intended for two types of educational outcomes. The GED is intended to demonstrate competency in standards set by the state, while a homeschool diploma is something more tailored to the student’s educational needs and goals.
GEDs are standardized tests, designed to provide information about an individual’s knowledge of core areas such as math, science, social studies, writing, and reading. To obtain a GED, students must pass these standardized tests in each of these areas. This demonstrates to employers and higher education institutions that an individual is at a minimum level of education.
Homeschool diplomas are usually a tailored diploma issued by a parent or guardian. It potentially outlines a student’s completed credits or coursework, and can also demonstrate proficiency in certain areas or topics.
However, these diplomas are not necessarily meant for employment or college applications. They are typically a personalized document intended to track integrity and good character of the student’s educational journey.
What Are the Options for Receiving a Diploma as a Homeschooled Student?
There are a few options to consider when receiving a diploma as a homeschooled student. One option is to take the GED, which most states allow homeschoolers to take.
The student must meet the requirements of the state in order to take the GED and will need to adhere to the attempts and score requirements to receive the GED diploma. Another option is to become a homeschool graduate through homeschool assessments, student portfolios, and other forms of assessment. If a homeschool student has met the requirements to graduate from their local state education, such as having earned the same number of credits or completed other coursework, then the student can become a homeschool graduate.
This can be done through homeschool assessment programs designed to evaluate the student’s knowledge and ability across a range of subjects. Finally, homeschooled students can complete accredited courses and exams to get a diploma.
If a student is able to attend a virtual or online high school, they have the opportunity to take tests that demonstrate their knowledge and abilities. Virtual high schools typically offer a diploma upon completion of these tests and may be accepted as an equivalent of a traditional school diploma.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Obtaining a Homeschool Diploma?
A homeschool diploma is an excellent way for a homeschooled student to demonstrate their academic ability and progress in their home environment and for their parents to monitor their progress. Homeschool diplomas are also often quite a bit less expensive compared to traditional schooling costs and can be customized to fit the student’s learning needs and desires. However, there are also some downsides of not following a traditional schooling route.
For example, a homeschool diploma may not be accepted by employers and universities. This means the student might have to take additional steps to show their academic proficiency, such as taking the GED.
Additionally, if a student decides to take the GED, they must adhere to the attempt and score requirements to receive a GED diploma.
What Are The Different Types of Homeschool Diplomas?
The type of homeschool diploma a student might receive largely depends on the state they are in since each state has its own distinct regulations, requirements, and available programs for homeschoolers. In some cases, a student might earn both a General Education Diploma (GED) and a homeschool diploma, depending on their preference and the requirements of their state. Additionally, states may also offer a Certificate of Completion that is still considered a valid form of graduation.
In other states, students can pursue a diploma from a distance-learning academy or virtual school. These schools offer courses that students can take from home and provide a diploma to students who have successfully completed the required coursework.
Is a Homeschool Diploma Recognized by Employers and Higher Education Institutions?
The answer to this question largely depends on the location of the employer and higher education institution. Some employers and higher education institutions do accept homeschool diplomas, while others do not.
It is best to contact the institutions of interest to inquire about the recognition of homeschool diplomas. Typically, employers and universities recognize GEDs and sometimes some types of homeschool diplomas (depending on the program and the type of diploma issued). It is also important to look into the requirements of employers and universities to make sure that a student’s coursework meets their application requirements.
How Can I Prepare My Homeschooled Student for College?
Preparing for college can be a daunting task for homeschooled students. This is because there are both academic and non-academic elements that must be considered. Academically, it is important to make sure a student is engaging in a rigorous curriculum.
The student should be encouraged to discuss their interests and goals with their parents and consider developing a plan to make sure they are taking the right classes and tests to meet their goals. Furthermore, the student should consider taking college prep classes, such as classes offered by the College Board or other organizations.
It is also important to consider the GED and any additional tests the student will need to take in order to be eligible for admission to colleges or universities. Non-academically, it is important to consider extracurricular activities and other experiences the student can have to demonstrate their character and interests. These activities can include things like volunteering, joining clubs, and pursuing an internship or work experience.
What Tests Are Available for Homeschoolers?
Homeschoolers have access to a number of tests that can help them demonstrate their academic capabilities in order to pursue higher education and career opportunities. The SAT and ACT are standardized tests that are typically used by colleges and universities to evaluate applicants.
Homeschoolers can take these tests and may be eligible for accommodations on test day that they wouldn’t be eligible for in a traditional school setting. Furthermore, some states offer an alternate form of assessment to help homeschoolers demonstrate competency. For example, some states offer portfolios or assessments that evaluate a student’s knowledge and abilities.
How Can I Make Sure My Child Is Learning Appropriate Content?
Since the parent is responsible for their child’s education when homeschooling, it is important to ensure that the child is engaging in appropriate content for their age and level of development. It is best to start with a plan for the student’s homeschooling and establish a curriculum for them to follow. Parents should select age-appropriate materials for their child and offer guidance and support in their learning.
Additionally, parents should make sure the materials they select have been pre-approved or recommended by their state. It is also important to engage in regular assessment to make sure the child is meeting their educational goals.
This can include administering tests, grading work, and evaluating student portfolios and other forms of assessment.
What Opportunities Are Available for Homeschoolers After Graduation?
Homeschooled students may have a number of educational, career, and personal opportunities available for them after graduation. Educationally, homeschooled students may pursue post-secondary education or training.
This could take the form of a degree program or technical training. Additionally, many homeschoolers pursue homeschooling assessment programs or participate in virtual or online courses in order to demonstrate their academic proficiency and gain college credits. Career options could include traditional employment opportunities, internships, apprenticeships, or self-employment ventures.
It is also important to consider personal and community opportunities after graduation, such as volunteer work, civic engagement, and pursuing hobbies, such as music, sports, or other interests.
Conclusion
Achieving a diploma as a homeschooled student can be an exciting achievement and a great accomplishment. There are several options available to help homeschoolers receive the recognition of their hard work, whether they plan on pursuing post-secondary education or a career.
It is important for homeschoolers to stay informed about the diploma requirements of their state, maintain a rigorous curriculum, and consider pursuing additional tests, courses, and assessment programs in order to demonstrate their academic ability.