More families are choosing to homeschool because they believe they are seeking a superior educational experience for their children. However the variety of homeschool curricula makes it difficult for colleges and universities to accurately evaluate student accomplishments in comparison to those of other students.
Homeschooled students can stand out for college admissions in all of the same ways that traditional students can. You just have to be a little more diligent in accounting for it.
Here are some suggestions for developing an application that really stands out. (Most suggestions apply to everyone, not just homeschooled students.)
1. Academics- Many homeschool students will need to create their own "transcript" to show colleges what they have studied. Some colleges and universities have supplemental forms for homeschool students to complete, listing their academic accomplishments.
Take time to present your coursework in detail- list experiences, travels, books read, etc. A student I advised this year was working on a research project at a local hospital, an in-depth project ideal for the homeschool student. Some students have in-depth Bible study as part of their curriculum. All of these academic experiences are valuable and should be clearly listed on college applications.
2. Activities - Another way homeschooled students can stand out is in their activities. Activities do not have to be school-based. You don't have to be a member of a school club or sports team to have accumulated significant hours in sports, organizations, or activities meaningful to you.
With greater flexibility of schedule, homeschoolers and can participate in activities requiring a significant time commitment. I've known some students who homeschooled so that they could pursue high-level competition in sports such as gymnastics, golf, or tennis, but your activity could incorporate your talents in music, the arts, or any field of your choice.
3. Service and Leadership - We need service and leadership in every community! Homeschool students have the unique ability to contribute because they are often available when other students are in school. Whether you choose to incorporate opportunities into your curriculum or take advantage of your ability to participate in activities scheduled during the traditional school day, you can stand out for your dedication to service or your leadership.
Consider service at your church or religious organization. Volunteer your time at the local library, hospital, or community center. Stand out in your community by becoming involved in local political campaigns, organizations such as Toastmasters or the Rotary Club, and look for opportunities to pursue issues and activities you are passionate about.
All students should take advantage of the opportunities on college applications to explain meaningful activities and elaborate on unique educational opportunities. Homeschool students may need to spend extra time and effort on applications to make sure all their academics, activities, service, and leadership stand out.
Homeschooled students can stand out for college admissions in all of the same ways that traditional students can. You just have to be a little more diligent in accounting for it.
Here are some suggestions for developing an application that really stands out. (Most suggestions apply to everyone, not just homeschooled students.)
1. Academics- Many homeschool students will need to create their own "transcript" to show colleges what they have studied. Some colleges and universities have supplemental forms for homeschool students to complete, listing their academic accomplishments.
Take time to present your coursework in detail- list experiences, travels, books read, etc. A student I advised this year was working on a research project at a local hospital, an in-depth project ideal for the homeschool student. Some students have in-depth Bible study as part of their curriculum. All of these academic experiences are valuable and should be clearly listed on college applications.
2. Activities - Another way homeschooled students can stand out is in their activities. Activities do not have to be school-based. You don't have to be a member of a school club or sports team to have accumulated significant hours in sports, organizations, or activities meaningful to you.
With greater flexibility of schedule, homeschoolers and can participate in activities requiring a significant time commitment. I've known some students who homeschooled so that they could pursue high-level competition in sports such as gymnastics, golf, or tennis, but your activity could incorporate your talents in music, the arts, or any field of your choice.
3. Service and Leadership - We need service and leadership in every community! Homeschool students have the unique ability to contribute because they are often available when other students are in school. Whether you choose to incorporate opportunities into your curriculum or take advantage of your ability to participate in activities scheduled during the traditional school day, you can stand out for your dedication to service or your leadership.
Consider service at your church or religious organization. Volunteer your time at the local library, hospital, or community center. Stand out in your community by becoming involved in local political campaigns, organizations such as Toastmasters or the Rotary Club, and look for opportunities to pursue issues and activities you are passionate about.
All students should take advantage of the opportunities on college applications to explain meaningful activities and elaborate on unique educational opportunities. Homeschool students may need to spend extra time and effort on applications to make sure all their academics, activities, service, and leadership stand out.
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