Colleges, Universities, and Homeschooling

“Is my first grader ready for college?” Seems like an odd question, but for any parent thinking about the future, what happens beyond high school can be incredibly important. Is homeschooling my child going to negatively impact their chances of going to college or university?

Here’s a few things you really need to know:

Homeschooling your child does NOT disqualify them from attending a college or university.

Dr. Michael Cogan, director of the Office of Institutional Research and Analysis at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota approached this subject by analyzing the student body. He found the statistics simply didn’t verify the myth. On average, homeschoolers earned a significantly higher GPA and a higher graduation rate. Many universities intentionally pursue homeschoolers knowing that they know how to study and are typically more self-disciplined and well rounded. Homeschoolers score 67 points above the national average on the SAT and outperform all other students on the ACT.

Homeschooling your child does NOT mean they will not qualify for grants and scholarships.

To begin with, homeschool students have been 2 ½ times more likely to receive a Pell Grant. Besides this, homeschool students can be eligible for merit-based scholarships such as those offered through the National Merit Scholarship program, student specific and career specific scholarships, and even athletic scholarships as the NCAA and NAIA have become friendlier toward homeschoolers. Businesses, brands, and public service organizations have also shown their support for homeschool students through grants and scholarships.

Homeschooling your child does NOT mean they must “settle for less” in their college years.

Did you know Ivy League Universities go out of their way to recruit homeschoolers? They recognize the great quality of student produced through home education. As you plan your four years of high school, it is important to be aware of college admissions requirements. Even if you are unsure of your future plans, you should follow a college-prep program so that you have more options at the end of high school. Colleges and universities vary in what they require for admissions. To be a strong applicant, aim beyond a school’s minimum requirements. Paying close attention to these requirements is essential to being accepted.

Whether college is your child’s next step or a decision yet a few years down the road, do not allow yourself to be caught up in believing the popular rumor that homeschoolers, for one reason or another, just can’t make it to or through college. The evidence shows just the opposite to be true.

Take a look at our free High School Planning Guide for useful steps to take throughout the High School years. 

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