Going to college: Applications for Home Schoolers

Cornell Notes

Main Notes

93% of colleges in a recent study accept course descriptions or portfolios instead of high-school diplomas from homeschoolers
Home schoolers often do better in smaller, more intimate college environments in their first two years
College preparation should begin in middle school (grades 5-6)
Critical thinking, research projects, Latin, and modern foreign languages are important for college readiness
Algebra I should ideally begin no later than 8th grade for SAT/ACT preparation
Minimum math requirement: Algebra I (9th grade) and geometry before PSATs (fall of 11th grade)
Latin improves vocabulary scores, reading, and grammar skills
Wide reading for 10 years prior improves SAT performance
Parents should get college catalogs before 9th grade to ensure high school program meets requirements
Detailed timetable provided for college preparation from grades 5-12
Parents advised to guide college choices to protect students' mental, physical, social, and spiritual health
Small colleges with similar moral and religious climate to home often lead to better outcomes for homeschoolers
Private universities may offer better financial aid packages than large state universities
Transferring after sophomore year is an option if desired major isn't available at a small school
College search should involve talking to friends, relatives, and other homeschoolers about experiences
Consult recent college guides for academic specialties, location, and campus climate
Check college admissions web pages or call for specific requirements for homeschoolers
Some colleges want transcripts, others course listings, projects, and books read, or complete portfolios
Taking at least two SAT subject tests in addition to the SAT is recommended
A standard transcript form is often preferred by overworked admissions officers
Application should emphasize language accomplishments, Great Books studies, thesis projects, and community service
Early decision process allows assured fall acceptance if student agrees to enroll if accepted
HSLDA offers assistance for homeschoolers validating NCAA initial eligibility requirements
Portfolios can be a persuasive tool in the application process
Detailed example provided of a successful Ivy League application portfolio
Outside substantiation of work and teacher recommendations are valuable for homeschoolers
Seeking college-level teachers and courses, even if not-for-credit, can be beneficial
Strategic selection of recommendation writers is important
Early college admission is not recommended; extra time before college is better spent studying, reading, and working
Several resources for application procedures and essay writing are provided

Cue Column

How has college acceptance of homeschoolers changed over time?
What type of college environment is recommended for homeschoolers?
When should college preparation begin for homeschoolers?
What subjects are crucial for college readiness?
How does Latin benefit standardized test performance?
What math courses are minimum requirements for college prep?
How can parents guide college choices effectively?
What factors should be considered when choosing a college?
How do financial aid packages differ between private and public universities?
What should be included in a homeschooler's college application?
How can homeschoolers showcase their unique educational experiences?
What is the 'early decision' process and its benefits?
How can homeschoolers prepare for college athletics?
What elements should be included in a homeschooler's portfolio?
How can homeschoolers obtain valuable teacher recommendations?
Why is seeking college-level courses beneficial for homeschoolers?
What strategies can be used when selecting recommendation writers?
Why is early college admission not recommended for homeschoolers?
How can homeschoolers best use the time before college?
What resources are available for college application guidance?

Summary

This chapter provides comprehensive guidance for homeschoolers preparing for and applying to college. It emphasizes that while college isn't for everyone, it's increasingly important for those pursuing white-collar or intellectual careers. The text highlights the growing acceptance of homeschoolers by colleges, with 93% of surveyed institutions willing to accept alternative forms of high school completion documentation.

The chapter stresses the importance of early preparation, suggesting that college readiness should begin as early as 5th or 6th grade. It outlines a detailed timetable for college preparation from middle school through 12th grade, covering aspects such as course planning, standardized test preparation, and the application process. The authors emphasize the value of a well-rounded education, including critical thinking, research skills, foreign languages (especially Latin), and a strong foundation in mathematics.

In terms of college selection, the text advises parents to play an active role in guiding their children's choices, considering factors such as school size, campus environment, and alignment with family values. It suggests that many homeschoolers thrive better in smaller, more intimate college settings, especially in their first two years. The chapter also discusses financial considerations, noting that private universities often offer better aid packages than larger state institutions.

The application process is covered in detail, with advice on creating transcripts, portfolios, and navigating various college requirements. The text provides a case study of a successful Ivy League application from a homeschooler, illustrating the depth and breadth of information that can be included in a portfolio. It emphasizes the importance of outside substantiation of academic work and strategic selection of recommendation writers.

Finally, the chapter cautions against rushing into early college admission, suggesting that the time between completing high school studies and starting college can be valuably used for further study, work experience, and personal growth. Overall, the text provides a comprehensive roadmap for homeschoolers transitioning to college, balancing practical advice with a holistic view of education and personal development.

Action Items

- Plan a math sequence to complete Algebra II and geometry by PSAT time
- Complete Vocabulary from Classical Roots series
- Take courses in logic
- Study at least two years of Latin before PSAT
- Research admission requirements for prospective colleges
- Plan high school curriculum to meet these requirements
- Find out PSAT dates and registration process in 10th grade
- Take PSAT in 11th grade for National Merit scholarship consideration
- Start working daily through an SAT preparation guide in 10th grade
- Register for and take the SAT in 12th grade
- Keep a transcript, even if not required by colleges
- Consider creating a portfolio including course descriptions, book lists, and writing samples
- Consider smaller schools, especially for the first two years
- Evaluate the moral and religious climate of potential colleges
- Investigate financial aid options, particularly at private universities
- Highlight language accomplishments and Great Books studies
- Describe junior and senior thesis projects
- List all community service and volunteer activities
- Consider early decision application if there's a clear first choice
- Find teachers or tutors for at least one or two subjects each year
- Cultivate relationships with college-level teachers if possible
- Obtain strong teacher recommendations, preferably from those with higher education experience
- If finishing high school early, engage in meaningful work or internships
- Continue reading and studying while gaining maturity before college

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