Homeschooling can provide many benefits to your child, but it does have its drawbacks as well. For quite some time homeschoolers had more difficulty applying to and being accepted by a college, so this was a significant drawback. However, as time goes by more colleges and universities are becoming homeschool friendly and making the application process easier for these individuals. Although, keep in mind that colleges and universities have strict requirements for admission and your child must meet or surpass these in order to be considered regardless of where they were educated. The following tips will help you prepare your homeschooled child for college.

Tip #1 Follow the Guidelines
The first thing you need to evaluate is what courses are required by universities and colleges in order for a student to be considered for admission. Some schools want students to have two years of a foreign language, three lab sciences, and certain levels of math while other schools are more lenient. Ensuring your child meets the requirements of the most difficult university will give your child the best chances to be admitted to any school.

Tip #2 Take Standardized Tests
Your homeschooler will need to take both the ACT and the SAT. Many colleges require one or the other, but have your child take both. That way you can send in the best scores to show your childs achievement. Remember it is important to begin studying for these tests early so when test time comes your student will be prepared. There are many computer programs and websites that will help your child prepare properly for these tests.

Tip #3 Social and Extracurricular Activities
Colleges and universities love to see students who have a great record of social, volunteer, and extracurricular activities. These include involvement with community programs, church, sports, clubs, and more. The more activities and engagements your child has the better off he will be when applying for college.

Your homeschooler can be accepted to a wonderful college or university without having to jump through too many hoops simply because he was homeschooled. But, keep in mind that homeschool is still not seen in the same light as traditionally schooled students so making your student stand out and look better than the rest through additional coursework or activities might work in your favor. Also, make sure all applications are completed properly, essays are well written and edited, and that your child is really putting his best foot forward. Doing this will result in your child having the best chances to be accepted by the college of his choice.

Posted in Homeschool

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