It is becoming increasingly more common for students to be educated using a homeschooling curriculum. Colleges want to attract a diverse student body, but they also have certain criteria they look for when accepting a homeschooled student. Knowing how schools view a homeschool education can help you decide whether a homeschooled student is the right fit for your college.
What Is Homeschooling?
Homeschooling is an alternative form of educational instruction where teachers and learning materials are provided in a home setting. Homeschooling can be tailored to the individual student and their specific needs, and it offers the opportunity for parents to have a more hands-on approach to their child’s educational experience. Generally, homeschooling is used for elementary, middle and high school grades, although some colleges and universities also offer homeschooling as an option.
Advantages of Homeschooling
Homeschooling has numerous advantages to a traditional school setting. Homeschooled students typically excel academically and may have a more in-depth knowledge in specific areas. Homeschooled students are also typically more independent and may have better self-discipline and self-motivation.
Another great benefit is that homeschooled students generally have more time to devote to extracurricular activities, allowing them to develop special talents and interests outside of the traditional classroom setting.
Disadvantages of Homeschooling
There are some disadvantages to homeschooling as well. Some students may not get the chance to socialize and develop social skills as much as traditional school students. There can also be financial burdens associated with homeschooling, since parents must provide materials and curriculum.
Additionally, homeschooled students may have difficulty getting into competitive colleges, since many colleges look for evidence of a traditional education.
How Colleges Look At Homeschooled Applicants
Colleges look at homeschooled applicants differently from traditional applicants. Often, homeschool applicants have to show extra evidence that they are prepared for college academics.
This may include taking additional college preparatory courses, submitting portfolios highlighting extracurricular activities and achievements, submitting teacher recommendations, and possibly taking admissions exams such as the SAT or the ACT. Also, colleges may want to know the accreditation of the homeschool itself, as well as the credentials of the parents teaching the student.
How Homeschool Applicants Can Increase Their Chances
Homeschool applicants can increase their chances of acceptance by demonstrating their capabilities as a student. This may include taking college prep courses, participating in local programs, doing independant projects, and of course, maintaining good grades.
Homeschool applicants should also be sure to demonstrate to colleges their well-roundedness, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and any special talents or skills that may give them an edge over other applicants.
What Colleges Look for in Homeschooling Transcripts?
When reviewing a homeschool student’s transcripts, colleges look for several key elements. They look to see if the courses taken meet the requirements for college admission, as well as to get an idea of the student’s academic level. Colleges also look for the detailed descriptions of courses taken and any other extracurricular activities.
Additionally, colleges look for evidence of the grade inflation and rigor of the homeschooling program.
How Homeschooled Students Can Earn College Credit
Homeschooled students can earn college credits in several ways. They can take college-level courses at a local college or university, take college-level tests such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), or enroll in dual-enrollment classes. Additionally, some colleges may accept transfer credits from homeschooling programs or from other college-level courses taken.
Doing Research on Colleges Admissions Practices
Before applying to colleges, homeschooled students should do research on the admissions practices of each college they’re interested in. This includes understanding the colleges’ criteria for admissions, what type of student they accept, and what kind of admissions tests, if any, they require. Knowing the answers to these questions can help the homeschooled student determine which colleges are best suited for their particular academic goals.
What Colleges Look for in an Essay
It is important for homeschooled students to understand what colleges look for in essays when evaluating applications. Generally, colleges look for essays that are creative, honest, and demonstrate the student’s knowledge and abilities.
Additionally, homeschool applicants should be sure to focus their essays on their own experiences and accomplishments, rather than just repeating what is already stated in the resume or other parts of the application.
Conclusion
Homeschooling is becoming increasingly more common, and it is important for homeschooled students to understand how colleges look at them for admission. homeschool applicants should be prepared to demonstrate that they are academically prepared for college and also have a well-rounded background that includes extracurricular activities and special talents.
Doing research on each college’s admissions practices and different ways to earn college credit is also key. With the right preparation, homeschooled students can show they are just as qualified as traditional school students and be accepted into their college of choice.