Do you need 3 English credits for 4? How much math? There can be two answers to these questions- the first answers the requirements for high school graduation, and the other is for college admissions. They aren’t the same, but knowing the difference is helpful when planning your teen’s high school exit strategy.
- Homeschool graduation requirements by state HERE
- State college admissions requirements by state HERE
Homeschool Graduation Requirements
As you plan your Homeschooling for College Credit program, you’re likely already aware that homeschooling laws vary significantly across all 50 states. Of course, it’s important to underscore that every homeschool family is responsible for following their own state’s laws. Operating legally ensures your teen’s graduation is recognized in all 50 states for the rest of their life. Look yours up here.
While some states have graduation requirements, most don’t. In many ways, this lack of boundaries can lead to uncertainty, and parents create self-imposed limits or “rules” for their homeschool. Despite this freedom, many parents feel uncomfortable without a defined “list” to follow. If your state doesn’t have graduation requirements for your state, you can adopt admissions requirements (next section) if you like, though that is not required.
College Admissions Requirements
College admissions requirements are just that, the requirements to participate. If you’re not going to participate, then you don’t need to meet the requirements!
In cases where there are no graduation requirements, parents sometimes adopt their state’s college admissions requirements. College admissions requirements are typically designed as minimums for any incoming freshman. Occasionally, I’ll read suggestions that “all” families follow a state’s college admissions requirements and apply those requirements to “all” homeschool students. This suggestion is “ok” but not ideal. Think of it as a temporarily solution until you can zero in on the actual requirements of the actual program(s) your student is considering.
Here are some examples of colleges or programs that have high school requirements you might not meet using your state’s college admissions template:
- The Culinary Institute of America recommends high school coursework in foods, hospitality, or nutrition.
- UMass Amherst requires high school anatomy & physiology or health sciences electives for any nursing major.
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) gives preference to students with electives in forensics, criminology, or legal studies.
- University of Michigan requires high school drama, theater tech, or competitive acting experience.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University recommends prior coursework in aeronautics, physics, or aviation studies.
- Music Schools (e.g., Juilliard, Berklee, Eastman) sometimes require music theory placement exams and participation in high school band, orchestra, or choir.
- U.S. Air Force Academy prefers applicants with coursework in calculus, chemistry, and computer science.
- Merchant Marine Academy looks favorably on coursework in marine science, navigation, or nautical science if available.
In short, there are almost 4,000 colleges in the U.S. and an endless list of post-high school opportunities beyond the norm. Before you adopt such a narrow set of standards, make sure it’s the best fit for your teen—and that it helps them accomplish their real occupational goals.
- Homeschool graduation requirements by state HERE
- State college admissions requirements by state HERE
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