Home schooling is becoming increasingly popular as an educational option in the US. Many parents are choosing to not just homeschool their children, but to do so through an accredited provider such as Penn Foster.
This article will cover the cost of homeschooling through Penn Foster and the important considerations parents should have when budgeting.
What Is Penn Foster?
Penn Foster is an accredited distance education provider that offers courses for all grade levels, homeschooling being one of them. It is registered with nine US states and the US Department of Education and is recognized by numerous accreditation agencies. It has been around since 1890 and offers quality education, with the added benefit of the convenience of homeschooling without the need for physical classrooms.
How Much Does Homeschooling Through Penn Foster Cost?
The cost of homeschooling is based on the length of time a student will take to complete their program and the grade level. Penn Foster’s homeschooling program typically costs between $1,300 USD and $2,400 USD per year.
However, it should be noted that the actual cost of each program depends on various options such as the number of courses chosen, the duration of the program, and any additional study materials.
What Are the Additional Costs?
There are also some additional costs associated with homeschooling through Penn Foster such as the fee for transcripts, special materials required for some courses, and additional fees for credit recovery courses and accelerated courses. The cost for the transcripts is $15 for a one-time fee, special materials for courses typically range from $60 to $100, and the cost of credit recovery or accelerated courses typically start at $60 and increase depending on the number of courses selected.
Additionally, some courses may require the purchase of textbooks or workbooks which also add to the cost of the program.
Are There Any Payment Plans Available?
Penn Foster does offer several payment plans to help parents budget for the cost of homeschooling. These include a monthly payment plan with a one-time enrollment fee of $35, a three payment plan with no enrollment fee, and a six payment plan with a one-time enrollment fee of $3
Additionally, most payment plans allow parents the option to make extra payments if they have the funds.
Are There Discounts Available?
Yes, there are several discounts available for homeschoolers through Penn Foster. These include special offers for religious organizations, discounts for military personnel and their families, and educational discounts for schools, libraries, and other educational institutions. Additionally, Penn Foster offers a 20% discount for those who enroll in a six- or 12-month payment plan and a 10% discount for those who choose the monthly installment plan.
Are There Other Ways to Reduce the Cost of Homeschooling Through Penn Foster?
Yes, there are several ways to reduce the cost of homeschooling through Penn Foster. The first is to research other education resources such as free courses and materials that may be available online. In addition, parents may be able to earn college credit with good performance.
Lastly, there are numerous grants and scholarships geared toward homeschoolers that may help to reduce the cost of homeschooling.
Are There Assistance Programs Available to Help with the Cost of Homeschooling Through Penn Foster?
Yes, there are several assistance programs available to help with the cost of homeschooling through Penn Foster. These include financial aid applications, tuition discounts, employer reimbursements, and government education grants.
Additionally, some states may offer tax credits or additional state-funded grants for homeschooling through Penn Foster so it is important for parents to research their state’s policies and regulations.
What Types of Resources Does Penn Foster Offer for Homeschoolers?
Penn Foster offers a wide range of resources for homeschoolers. This includes books and materials, online courses, tutoring services, and online support groups. Additionally, Penn Foster has a full-time team of advisors that are available to help homeschoolers with any questions or issues they may have.
Is Penn Foster Accredited?
Yes, Penn Foster is accredited by the US Department of Education and has received numerous other accreditations from multiple accreditation agencies. The organization is also recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
What Do Students Receive When They Enroll in the Homeschool Program?
When a student enrolls in the homeschool program they receive a complete package, with materials and resources needed to complete their courses. This includes books and materials, access to their student portal, 24/7 tech support, a personalized lesson plan, and an online community of dedicated homeschoolers and advisors. Additionally, each student is also assigned an academic advisor who is available for any questions or advice throughout the program.
Do Penn Foster Programs Qualify for College Credit?
Yes, the programs offered by Penn Foster do qualify for college credit if students meet the necessary requirements. In general, Penn Foster credits are accepted at most accredited institutions and can be transferred to some other programs. Additionally, Penn Foster also has agreements with some colleges and universities that allow students to transfer credits from their Penn Foster coursework.
Is There Flexibility in the Program to Accommodate Different Schedules?
Yes, Penn Foster offers flexibility in the program to accommodate different schedules. There are courses that can be completed as quickly as one week, with the added benefit of never needing to take a test. Additionally, students also have the option to take courses at their own pace, allowing them to take more time if needed.
Conclusion
Homeschooling through Penn Foster is a great option for many parents wanting to provide quality education for their child without the need for physical classrooms. Although there can be additional costs and fees associated with the program, there are also options available to help make it more affordable. Additionally, Penn Foster has a wide range of resources and programs to help make the homeschooling experience more effective and enjoyable.