Overview
What it is
Homeschooling high school is very doable — and homeschoolers are welcomed by colleges — but it does require more recordkeeping. You'll assign credits, keep a transcript and GPA, and plan courses with college and career goals in mind. A parent-issued diploma is valid, and a well-kept transcript tells your student's story.
Records
Records & portfolios
At the high-school level, records matter more. Keep a running transcript, course descriptions, reading lists, and samples of significant work — you'll need them for college applications, scholarships, and sometimes state requirements.
High School
Homeschooling high school
- Assigning creditsAward credit by completing a course (a full-year high-school-level course is typically one credit) or by hours (roughly 120–180 hours per credit).
- The transcriptYou create a transcript listing courses, credits, grades, and GPA — the key document for college applications.
- Graduation requirementsPlan a course load that meets typical college-admission expectations (English, math, science, social studies, world language, electives).
- DiplomaA parent/homeschool-issued diploma is valid; some families also use an umbrella school or the GED as an alternative credential.
College
College admissions
- Colleges welcome homeschoolersMost have clear homeschool-admission paths and value the independence homeschoolers show.
- Standardized testsThe SAT or ACT can strengthen a homeschool application; some colleges request extra documentation.
- Course rigor & activitiesAdvanced courses (including dual enrollment, AP, or CLEP), plus activities and leadership, build a strong profile.
- Detailed recordsCourse descriptions and a strong transcript help colleges evaluate homeschool work.
Tips
Tips for success
- Plan with the end in mindWork backward from college/career goals
- Keep the transcript currentUpdate it each semester
- Add rigor strategicallyDual enrollment, AP, or CLEP can earn credit and show rigor
- Prep for the SAT/ACTIt can strengthen a homeschool application
- Save documentationCourse descriptions and work samples help
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- Is a homeschool diploma valid?Yes — a parent/homeschool-issued diploma is valid; some also use an umbrella school or GED.
- How do I assign credits?By completing a course or by hours (roughly 120–180 hours per credit).
- Do colleges accept homeschoolers?Yes — most welcome them and have clear admission paths.
- Do I need the SAT/ACT?It's often helpful for homeschool applicants; check each college.
- What records should I keep?A transcript, course descriptions, reading lists, and samples of major work.
At a Glance
Key facts
- CreditsBy course or hours (~120–180 hrs/credit)
- TranscriptYou create it (courses, grades, GPA)
- DiplomaParent-issued is valid
- CollegeHomeschoolers are welcomed; SAT/ACT helps
- RigorDual enrollment, AP, or CLEP
Learn More
Where to learn more
Plan for college and testing: