So maybe you’re thinking about homeschooling your kids, or looking to switch from homeschooling to college?
Great!
But how do homeschooled students get into college? and what makes them stand in the crowd!
That’s a question a lot of parents have, and there can be tons of factors included like how good their grades and test scores are, how competitive the colleges they’re applying to are, and whether or not the college has a policy for homeschoolers.
What Are the Requirements for Homeschooled Students?
While each college has its own requirements (this depends on which country and where you’re applying), there are some general things that most colleges will want to see from homeschooled students.
Transcript
One of the most important things is a transcript.
A transcript is a record of the courses that you’ve taken and the grades that you’ve received.
Creating a transcript can be as simple as listing out the courses you’ve taken and finding someone who can certify that you took them (usually a parent or guardian).
You’ll also want to include any standardized test scores, like the SAT or ACT.
Letters of Recommendation
If you’re curious about how do homeschooled students get into college, you must know the importance of a Letter Of Recommendation.
These are letters written by people who can speak to your character and abilities, like a teacher, coach, or employer.
I know, most of you have your Parents as a coach or teachers, because they’re the ones you’ve spent a lot of time with. But you should not submit a letter from a parent.
Admissions counselors can usually tell when a parent writes a letter, and it often hurts more than it helps.
The best letters of recommendation are from people who know you well, can speak to your strengths, and can attest to your’s unique skill set.
Application Essays
Most colleges will also require that you submit an application essay.
This is your chance to show the admissions counselors who you are, what makes you unique, and the value you will bring to the institution.
You’ll want to focus on how your homeschooling experience has prepared you for college, and how it has helped you develop as a person.
Do Colleges Really Want Homeschooled Students?
Students get confused over how do homeschooled students get into college, Are colleges willing for homeschooled students?
But the reality is, Colleges are actually starting to become more and more interested in homeschoolers!
The main reason is that colleges are looking for students who are different, and unique. And what’s more unique than being homeschooled?
Homeschoolers often stand out because they have spent their high school years focusing on things that they’re passionate about, rather than just trying to get good grades.
And colleges are beginning to realize that homeschoolers often have a lot to offer!
What makes you stand out as a successful homeschool candidate?
If you’re wondering how do homeschooled students get into college, it’s because they’re successful homeschoolers so often stand out from the crowd.
There are many factors that make homeschoolers successful candidates for college admission, but here are three of the most important:
- They have focused on things they’re passionate about, rather than just trying to get good grades.
- They have usually spent more time developing their extracurricular interests than traditional students.
- They are often more mature and independent than their peers.
- They’re dedicated, goal-driven, and self-motivated individuals.
Is it harder for homeschoolers to get into college?
The answer to this question is a little complicated.
There are a few things that you need to keep in mind.
First, each college has its own admissions process, and some colleges may be more difficult to get into than others.
Second, homeschooled students often have different strengths and weaknesses than traditional students.
This means that they may be better suited for some colleges than others.
Finally, it’s important to remember that homeschoolers are a small minority of the total college-aged population.
So, while it may be harder for homeschoolers to get into certain colleges, it’s important to keep things in perspective. There are many colleges out there, and homeschoolers have been successful in getting into a wide variety of them.
Homeschoolers often stand out from the crowd because they’re dedicated, goal-driven, and self-motivated individuals.
They’ve usually spent more time developing their extracurricular interests than traditional students, and they’re often more mature and independent.
If you’re a homeschooler, remember that you have many strengths that will help you succeed in college. Use these to your advantage when applying to colleges.
Top Challenges while going from homeschool to college
The college application process can be daunting for any student, but it can be especially challenging for homeschoolers.
There are a few key things that homeschooled students should keep in mind when applying to college:
- Make sure you understand the requirements of the colleges you’re interested in. Each college has different requirements, so it’s important to do your research.
- Get help from people who understand the process. Talk to other homeschoolers who have already been through the process, or reach out to a college admissions counselor for guidance.
- Start early! The college application process can be time-consuming, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to complete everything.
- Be prepared to explain your homeschooling experience. Admissions counselors will want to know how you’ve been educated, and why you chose to homeschool.
- Have confidence in yourself. You have so much to offer, so believe in your abilities and don’t be afraid to sell yourself.
Applying to college as a homeschooled student can be a challenge, but it’s definitely doable.
Keep these things in mind, and you’ll be on your way to success.
What Are the Chances of Getting Into College as a Homeschooler?
The truth is, it’s hard to say.
There are so many factors that go into the admissions process, and each college is different.
Some colleges have specific policies for homeschooled students, some pursue national homeschooling guidelines, while others treat them the same as any other applicant.
The best way to find out is to research the specific colleges you’re interested in, and see how they treat homeschooled applicants.
But don’t let that stop you from applying!
Homeschoolers have just as much of a chance of getting into college as any other student.
It might take a little extra work, but it’s definitely possible.
Does homeschooling prepare students for college?
Homeschooling can prepare students for college in many ways.
Homeschoolers often have focused on things they’re passionate about, and have spent more time developing their extracurricular interests.
This can make them stand out as successful candidates for college admission.
In addition, homeschoolers are often more mature and independent than their peers.
This can help them succeed in college, where they will be expected to manage their own time and workload.
Finally, homeschoolers are often very dedicated, goal-oriented, and self-motivated individuals.
This can help them thrive in the college environment.
So if you’re wondering if homeschooling can prepare students for college, the answer is a resounding yes!
Related Guide: reasons why homeschooling is bad
What if my grades and test scores aren’t perfect?
If your grades and test scores aren’t perfect, don’t worry.
There are plenty of colleges that accept students with less than perfect grades.
The important thing is to focus on how you’ve grown as a person, and how your homeschooling experience has prepared you for college.
Admissions counselors are looking for students who are dedicated, goal-oriented, and self-motivated.
If you can show them that you have what it takes to succeed in college, they’ll be more likely to overlook a few less than perfect grades.
So don’t let your grades stop you from applying to college!
What if I’m not sure what I want to study?
If you’re not sure what you want to study, that’s okay.
Many students don’t know what they want to major in when they first start college.
The important thing is to choose a college that will give you the opportunity to explore different areas of interest.
Look for a college that has a strong liberal arts program, and make sure to take advantage of the opportunity to take a variety of courses.
This will help you figure out what you’re interested in, and what you’re good at.
And who knows, you might just find your passion along the way.
It’s your turn!
No more need to think about how do homeschooled students get into college. There are plenty of options and opportunities out there for you. Just do your research, and you’ll be on your way to college in no time.
Sheen is a mommy blogger and founder of MomCritics with two motives of life. The one is the perfect parenting of her two kids and the second is to help moms around the globe with helpful content.