Home-Schooled Students

Homeschooled students can stand out in all of the same ways that traditional students can, but you just have to be a little more diligent in accounting for it. All students should take advantage of the opportunities on college applications to explain meaningful activities and elaborate on unique educational opportunities. As a homeschooled student, you may need to create your own transcript. Take time to present your coursework in detail. With greater flexibility of schedule, homeschoolers and can participate in activities requiring a significant time commitment. Make sure you document and describe what you have done to make sure all your academics, activities, service, and leadership stand out.

Homeschooled students, like all students, need to demonstrate their preparation for college. This may mean a bit more leg-work for homeschooled students. Here are some suggestions: If possible, take a few classes at a local community college or through an accredited on-line school to show colleges that you can be successful in a classroom setting. Make sure to keep detailed records of all of your academic work. Be prepared to submit a research paper or lab report that you’ve written. Ensure that you have real lab experience in your science course work. Prepare for the SAT and/or ACT – your scores will be important factors in admission decisions. Consider taking SAT subject tests to show mastery in academics. Interview with colleges whenever possible to explain your educational journey. Look for ways to connect with peers beyond academics – develop extracurricular interests and commitments. Add a supplemental statement to your application that answers these questions: Why were you homeschooled? How did you benefit from homeschooling? What challenges did you face in homeschooling? How do you think your homeschooled experience has prepared you for college?

Home schooled students can stand out in similar ways as all students. Developing intellectual, artistic, athletic or civic passions to the point where they are recognized on a national level will make any student stand out.

Typically home schooled students will be required to submit additional information as part of their application. This can actually serve as an advantage as you can demonstrate your individual talents and abilities. Your test scores will make a difference, but do not underestimate the power of letters of recommendation and experience. If you have the flexibility of many home-schoolers, use that to your advantage by interning or working in a field you would like to study in college. Building a solid resume will help you prepare for college and demonstrate your potential as an applicant.

They automatically do, and especially if they are academic superstars with massive hrs of community service hrs!

Homeschooled students can stand out by getting good grades and test scores. Standardized test scores are weighted more heavily in the admission process because they provide the college with a standard measure of achievement. Another way to stand out is to explain why you or your parents chose homeschooling. For example, I have worked with a home schooled student who practiced her violin for five hours each day. She would not have been able to do so if she was in a regular classroom. Since both parents were violinists, she was able to get the best music education possible. She was accepted to Juilliard.