Auburn, Clemson, even Harvard are just a few of the schools that gladly accept homeschool students. Most instituions of higher learning are impressed by the homeschoolers level of maturity, diversified education, and their ability to be independent learners. The following is a quote taken from Jon Reider, a Stanford University admissions officer, “Homeschoolers bring certain skills – motivation, curiosity, the capacity to be responsible for their education – that high schools don’t induce very well.”
The following is a basic list that most colleges require prior to admission:
• Four years of English (including grammar, composition, and literature.)
• Three years of social studies (American history, government, and economics.)
• Three years of math (including geometry and algebra.)
• Three years of science (including biology, physical science with lab experience.)
• Two years of a foreign language.
• Computer technology course.
• At least two years of electives.
Colleges usually have their own specific guidelines for entrance. For example, the college that your student is interested in may only require one year of a foreign language, or a more specific math, or science course be completed prior to college. If your student has expressed interest in a particular college, now is the time to find out their requirements for entrance and start gearing your child’s studies in that direction.
Be sure to keep very good records during these important high school years. Keep transcripts current. Colleges can usually provide you with a transcript form to fill out. Your child will also want to start collecting letters of recommendation from tutors, employers, clergy, etc.
A wonderful option also is dual enrollment. While finishing high school your child can also enroll at the local community college and be working toward his college diploma at the same time! There is also the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). The CLEP test allows students to test in a certain area to see if they have achieved the knowledge necessary in order to receive college credit for that area. Check with your local community college or university for more information.
Oh yes, homeschoolers are eligible for scholarships and loans too! Check out the following websites for more information:
• www.hsadvisor.com
• www.finaid.org
• www.fafsa.ed.gov
Colleges and universities recognize that the number of homeschool families in the United States is growing in tremendous numbers. The best thing to do is to start early in the high school years in preparation for college. Start doing research on schools of interest to learn what their requirements are so that your child is prepared for the college years.