College Counseling For Home Schooled Students

Students who follow a more untraditional curriculum often find the college application process confusing. Many colleges and universities are just now beginning to adopt admissions procedures that can accommodate students who have prepared for college outside of the “typical” four year high school experience. Colleges are seeking students who offer a different perspective, who can think independently, and are self-motivated. Often these are the very qualities that a more experiential or individualized curriculum fosters. Homeschooled students and families particularly benefit from Ms Groelle's expertise.

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Developing your college list without the benefit of a college counselor can be a challenge. There are many good sites on the internet to explore - including the College Board, ACT, Petersons and National Association for College Admissions Counseling (of which I am a member).

When considering a student's preparation for college, admissions officers most often first refer to the high school transcript where courses and grades are important indicators. Home-schooled students often do not have such a document to offer. However, here are some important tips that will help admissions officers to better understand your preparation:

Develop a grade 9-12 listing of the courses that you have completed and the grade earned in each. Have this documented by the person overseeing your coursework.
Take the SAT, ACT, and SAT Subject Tests (in as many areas as you can, at least 5 including Writing, Math I or II, a history, a science, and a foreign language). Scores of 600 or better are generally considered to be strong ones.
Write an essay detailing your educational background during the high school years (include the traditional course work covered, how you have been taught, who has assessed your progress, and any experiential learning you have done).
Communicate frequently with the admissions office (email, phone calls, and interview on campus).
Be certain that your college essays are given your best efforts. These will be reviewed carefully.
Develop a resume of activities that highlight your community service, club, or organizational affiliations. Colleges want to see that you can “get along with others” and are collaborative.

Colleges are aware that a growing number of American students are choosing to be schooled at home.

Your willingness to provide them with the information you feel they need to know about you will enhance your chances of admission.

Begin your search early in the junior year and be a proactive participant in the process.