Complete Homeschool High School Planning Checklist
4-Year Strategic Plans for College, Entrepreneurship, and Military Pathways
FOUNDATIONAL PLANNING (Do This First - 8th Grade/Early 9th Grade)
Step 1: Choose Your Primary Path
Identify student's primary goal: College, Entrepreneurship, or Military
Discuss secondary interests (many students blend paths)
Research specific requirements for chosen direction
Determine whether to use accredited program or parent-directed approach
Step 2: Documentation Approach Decision
OPTION A: Accredited Homeschool Program
Research accredited programs (Kolbe Academy, Seton, Laurel Springs, etc.)
Verify accreditation is recognized by target colleges/employers
Understand their transcript and diploma requirements
Note: Program handles transcripts, GPA calculation, diploma
Budget for program costs ($500-$3,000+ per year)
OPTION B: Parent-Directed (Non-Accredited)
Understand you'll create all transcripts and course descriptions
Research your state's homeschool graduation requirements
Plan to document everything from day one
Prepare portfolio of student work samples
Consider dual enrollment for external transcripts
Note: Many excellent colleges accept non-accredited homeschool transcripts
Step 3: Set Up Documentation Systems
Create a filing system for all coursework
Set up spreadsheet for tracking credits (1 credit = 120-180 hours)
Begin course description template (course title, materials, summary)
Save syllabi from all courses
Keep samples of best work from each subject
Photograph projects and hands-on work
Document volunteer hours, work experience, extracurriculars
PATH 1: COLLEGE PREPARATION TRACK
Critical Early Steps (9th Grade)
Research 5-10 colleges of interest (start with dream schools)
Request admission requirements from each college
Review their homeschool admission policies specifically
Note required subjects, tests, and any special homeschool requirements
Join homeschool-to-college Facebook groups for insights
Subscribe to college admissions newsletters
Testing Timeline
9th Grade: Take PSAT 8/9 for practice (optional)
10th Grade: Take PSAT/NMSQT (October) - National Merit qualifier
11th Grade:
Take PSAT/NMSQT again (October)
Take SAT or ACT (spring) - first attempt
Consider SAT Subject Tests if required by colleges
12th Grade:
Retake SAT/ACT if needed (fall)
Complete any AP exams for courses taken
Freshman Year (9th Grade) - College Track
Core Academics (aim for honors/advanced level)
English I: Literature and Composition (1 credit)
Include essay writing, literary analysis, grammar
Read 6-8 classic works
Algebra I or Geometry (1 credit)
Biology (1 credit with lab component)
Document labs with photos/reports
World History or Geography (1 credit)
Foreign Language Level I (1 credit)
Match language to college requirements (most want 2-3 years of one language)
Electives
Physical Education (0.5 credit)
Fine Arts: Art, Music, or Drama (0.5 credit)
College Prep Activities
Join or start one meaningful extracurricular (depth matters more than breadth)
Begin volunteer work in area of interest
Start a reading journal for college essays
Create initial activity resume
Total Credits: 6-7
Sophomore Year (10th Grade) - College Track
Core Academics
English II: World Literature and Composition (1 credit)
Increase essay complexity
Include research paper
Geometry or Algebra II (1 credit)
Chemistry (1 credit with lab)
Keep detailed lab reports
World History or US History I (1 credit)
Foreign Language Level II (1 credit)
Continue same language from 9th grade
Electives
Physical Education (0.5 credit)
Fine Arts or Career/Technical elective (0.5 credit)
College Prep Activities
Take PSAT/NMSQT in October
Continue and deepen extracurricular involvement
Begin building relationship with potential recommenders
Attend college fairs
Visit 2-3 college campuses if possible
Update activity resume
Consider Adding:
Dual enrollment course at community college (appears on external transcript)
Total Credits: 6-7
Junior Year (11th Grade) - College Track
This is the MOST IMPORTANT year for college applications
Core Academics
English III: American Literature and Composition (1 credit)
Focus on analytical and persuasive writing
Include college-level reading
Algebra II or Pre-Calculus (1 credit)
Physics (1 credit with lab) OR second year of previous science
US History (1 credit)
Foreign Language Level III (1 credit)
Complete 3rd year if colleges require it
Electives
Physical Education (0.5 credit)
Advanced elective aligned with intended major (0.5-1 credit)
College Prep Activities
Take PSAT/NMSQT in October
Take SAT or ACT in spring (March-June)
Take AP exams if applicable (May)
Visit more colleges (aim for 5-10 total)
Attend college information sessions
Request letters of recommendation (give writers 2+ months notice)
Begin brainstorming college essay topics
Update activity resume with leadership roles
Prepare portfolio if needed for major (art, music, etc.)
Strongly Consider:
Dual enrollment courses (2-4 courses show college readiness)
AP courses if aligned with college goals
Summer programs at colleges of interest
Total Credits: 6-7
Senior Year (12th Grade) - College Track
Core Academics
English IV: British Literature or Advanced Composition (1 credit)
Include research and analytical writing
Pre-Calculus, Calculus, or Statistics (1 credit)
Choose based on intended major requirements
Advanced Science elective (1 credit)
AP Biology, AP Chemistry, Environmental Science, Anatomy, etc.
Government/Economics (0.5-1 credit)
Foreign Language Level IV OR advanced elective (1 credit)
Electives
Physical Education (0.5 credit)
Elective related to intended college major (0.5-1 credit)
College Application Timeline
Summer before senior year: Draft college essays
August: Finalize college list (6-12 schools: 2 reach, 4-6 target, 2-4 safety)
September:
Retake SAT/ACT if needed
Request transcripts/recommendations
Complete Common App or school-specific applications
October: Submit early action/early decision applications
November-December: Complete remaining applications
January: Submit FAFSA (opens October 1)
February-April: Receive decisions, visit admitted student days
May 1: National Decision Day - commit to a college
Senior Year Documentation (Non-Accredited Path)
Create final transcript with all 4 years
Write detailed course descriptions for each class
Compile comprehensive reading list
Create school profile explaining your homeschool
Prepare counselor letter (parent writes this)
Prepare student resume
Gather any additional documentation colleges request
Total Credits: 6-7
4-Year College Track Summary
Minimum Credits for College-Bound Students: 24-26 credits
English: 4 credits
Math: 4 credits (through Pre-Calculus minimum; Calculus for competitive schools)
Science: 3-4 credits (Biology, Chemistry, Physics + elective)
Social Studies: 3-4 credits (World History, US History, Government, Economics)
Foreign Language: 2-4 credits (same language; 3-4 for competitive schools)
Physical Education: 2 credits
Fine Arts: 1 credit
Electives: 3-4 credits
Key College Admission Components:
Strong GPA (3.5+ for competitive schools)
SAT/ACT scores matching college's middle 50%
Rigorous course load with honors/AP/dual enrollment
Meaningful extracurriculars with leadership
Compelling essays
Strong recommendation letters
Demonstrated interest in colleges
PATH 2: ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRACK
Philosophy for This Path
Focus on practical business skills, real-world experience, and building an actual business during high school. Math goes through Algebra II/business math rather than Calculus. Replace advanced academics with business courses, internships, and entrepreneurial projects.
Freshman Year (9th Grade) - Entrepreneurship Track
Core Academics
English I: Communication and Business Writing (1 credit)
Include professional emails, proposals, presentations
Algebra I (1 credit)
Biology or Earth Science (1 credit)
Geography or World History (1 credit)
Emphasize economics and trade
Business Foundation Courses
Introduction to Business (0.5 credit)
Business types, basic economics, entrepreneurship overview
Personal Finance (0.5 credit)
Budgeting, banking, credit, saving, investing basics
Electives
Physical Education (0.5 credit)
Technology/Computer Skills (0.5 credit)
Entrepreneurship Activities
Identify student's interests and potential business ideas
Start learning basic bookkeeping
Shadow local business owners
Read: "Rich Dad Poor Dad," "The Lean Startup"
Begin developing business idea
Total Credits: 6-7
Sophomore Year (10th Grade) - Entrepreneurship Track
Core Academics
English II: Professional Communication (1 credit)
Business writing, marketing copy, presentations
Geometry or Business Math (1 credit)
Chemistry or Applied Science (1 credit)
US History I or Economics (1 credit)
Business Development Courses
Marketing Fundamentals (0.5-1 credit)
Social media marketing, branding, customer psychology
Website Design and Development (0.5-1 credit)
Build actual business website
Electives
Physical Education (0.5 credit)
Graphic Design or Digital Media (0.5 credit)
Entrepreneurship Activities
Launch first small business or side project
Could be: lawn care, tutoring, pet sitting, online store, crafts, etc.
Set up business bank account
Create business social media presence
Attend local Chamber of Commerce events
Find a business mentor
Track all income and expenses
Total Credits: 6-7
Junior Year (11th Grade) - Entrepreneurship Track
Core Academics
English III: Advanced Business Communication (1 credit)
Grant writing, business proposals, contracts
Algebra II or Business/Consumer Math (1 credit)
Focus on profit/loss, margins, financial analysis
Physics, Environmental Science, or elective science (1 credit)
US History II or Government (1 credit)
Advanced Business Courses
Accounting and Bookkeeping (1 credit)
QuickBooks, profit/loss statements, tax basics
Entrepreneurship (1 credit)
Business planning, pitching, scaling, legal structures
Practical Experience
Business Internship (0.5-1 credit)
Document hours and learning outcomes
Physical Education (0.5 credit)
Entrepreneurship Activities
Scale existing business or start second venture
Complete full business plan
Consider LLC formation (with parent co-ownership if under 18)
Pitch business to potential investors or at competitions
Attend entrepreneur conferences or workshops
Build professional network
Learn about business taxes and file if applicable
Total Credits: 6-7
Senior Year (12th Grade) - Entrepreneurship Track
Core Academics
English IV: Advanced Professional Writing (1 credit)
Create professional portfolio
Statistics or Personal Finance Math (1 credit)
Data analysis for business decisions
Economics (0.5 credit)
Government (0.5 credit)
Science elective or Environmental Studies (1 credit)
Advanced Business/Career Courses
Advanced Marketing/Sales (0.5-1 credit)
Sales strategy, customer relations, advanced digital marketing
Business Law and Ethics (0.5 credit)
Management and Leadership (0.5 credit)
Practical Experience
Advanced Business Internship or Independent Study (1 credit)
Work in student's business or meaningful internship
Physical Education (0.5 credit)
Entrepreneurship Activities
Grow business to sustainable income level
Hire first employee or contractor (even if part-time)
Create exit strategy or succession plan for business
Build professional portfolio website
Develop relationships with suppliers, vendors, clients
Consider business certifications (Google Analytics, HubSpot, etc.)
Plan next steps: Continue business, start new venture, or consider community college business courses
Post-Graduation Planning
Decide whether to continue education (community college, trade school)
Apply for business grants or microloans if expanding
Research business licenses and regulations
Consider joining professional associations (SCORE, local business groups)
Total Credits: 6-7
4-Year Entrepreneurship Track Summary
Total Credits: 24-26
English: 4 credits (business communication focus)
Math: 4 credits (through Algebra II/Business Math)
Science: 3-4 credits
Social Studies: 3-4 credits (emphasize economics and government)
Business Courses: 4-6 credits
Internships/Work Experience: 2-3 credits
Physical Education: 2 credits
Electives: 2-3 credits (technology, design, marketing)
Key Entrepreneurship Components:
Actual business launched and operating by graduation
Documented revenue and business growth
Business plan and financial records
Professional portfolio and online presence
Real-world experience and mentorship
Practical skills: accounting, marketing, sales, web design
Professional network in chosen industry
PATH 3: MILITARY PREPARATION TRACK
Military Branch Research (Do This Early)
Research all branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force
Understand ASVAB requirements for each branch
Research specific career fields (MOS/AFSC/Rating)
Contact local recruiters (but don't commit until fully informed)
Attend military information sessions
Consider service academy vs. ROTC vs. enlistment
ASVAB Preparation Timeline
9th-10th Grade: Focus on math and reading comprehension
11th Grade: Take practice ASVAB tests
Early 12th Grade: Take official ASVAB (scores valid for 2 years)
Target score: 50+ (higher scores = more career options)
Freshman Year (9th Grade) - Military Track
Core Academics
English I: Literature and Composition (1 credit)
Strong reading comprehension for ASVAB
Algebra I (1 credit)
Critical for ASVAB math sections
Biology or Physical Science (1 credit)
World History or Geography (1 credit)
Understanding of global affairs
Military Preparation
Physical Education with fitness focus (0.5 credit)
Begin training for military fitness standards
Learn proper running form, pushups, situps
JROTC (if available) or Leadership course (0.5 credit)
Electives
Technology or Automotive (0.5 credit)
Health/First Aid (0.5 credit)
Military Prep Activities
Research military branches and career fields
Begin fitness routine matching military standards
Start practicing ASVAB-style questions
Consider Civil Air Patrol, Naval Sea Cadets, or Young Marines
Read military history and current events
Total Credits: 6-7
Sophomore Year (10th Grade) - Military Track
Core Academics
English II: Literature and Technical Writing (1 credit)
Include technical reading comprehension
Geometry (1 credit)
Spatial reasoning for ASVAB
Chemistry or Earth Science (1 credit)
US History (1 credit)
Military Preparation
Physical Education with advanced fitness (0.5 credit)
Meet or exceed branch fitness minimums
JROTC Level 2 or Leadership Development (0.5-1 credit)
Electives
Foreign Language (0.5-1 credit)
Valuable for military intelligence and special operations
Mechanical/Technical elective (0.5 credit)
Military Prep Activities
Take practice ASVAB tests
Attend military summer camps (if available)
Build discipline and time management skills
Maintain clean record (no legal issues)
Meet with recruiters to learn about specific jobs
Consider leadership roles in extracurriculars
Begin researching service academies if interested
Total Credits: 6-7
Junior Year (11th Grade) - Military Track
Core Academics
English III: Advanced Composition (1 credit)
Technical and informational writing
Algebra II (1 credit)
Advanced ASVAB math preparation
Physics (1 credit)
Mechanics crucial for ASVAB
US Government (0.5 credit)
Economics (0.5 credit)
Military Preparation
Physical Education/Military Fitness (0.5 credit)
Exceed branch fitness standards
JROTC Level 3 or Leadership Practicum (0.5-1 credit)
Electives
Computer Science or IT (0.5-1 credit)
Cyber careers are growing in military
Advanced Technical elective (0.5 credit)
Military Prep Activities
Take official ASVAB (early in year)
Narrow down branch and career field choices
Meet fitness standards for chosen branch
Begin application for service academies (if pursuing)
Request congressional nominations (for academies)
Take SAT/ACT if considering ROTC or academies
Attend military career events
Get MEPS physical if enlisting after graduation
Build leadership resume
Consider:
Apply for ROTC scholarships (highly competitive)
Total Credits: 6-7
Senior Year (12th Grade) - Military Track
Core Academics
English IV: Professional Communication (1 credit)
Pre-Calculus or Statistics (1 credit)
Advanced Science elective (1 credit)
Modern World Issues/Current Events (0.5 credit)
Military History (0.5 credit)
Military Preparation
Physical Education/Military Fitness (0.5 credit)
Maintain peak fitness for basic training
JROTC Level 4 or Capstone Leadership Project (0.5-1 credit)
Electives
Career-specific technical course (1 credit)
Match to desired military occupation
First Aid/Emergency Response (0.5 credit)
Military Enlistment Timeline
Fall: Meet with recruiters, take ASVAB if not done
October-December: Complete MEPS medical and background check
January-March: Select MOS/job and sign contract
Spring: Prepare for basic training
Summer after graduation: Ship to basic training
OR - Service Academy Timeline
Fall: Complete applications (West Point, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy, Merchant Marine Academy)
Winter: Attend interviews
Spring: Receive appointments
Summer: Attend academy
Senior Year Preparation
Maintain physical fitness standards
Stay out of legal trouble (critical for enlistment)
Get required medical documentation
Obtain high school transcript/diploma
Study for specific ASVAB line scores if needed
Research housing options for family (if applicable)
Understand benefits: GI Bill, housing, healthcare
Prepare family for your departure to basic training
Total Credits: 6-7
4-Year Military Track Summary
Total Credits: 24-26
English: 4 credits
Math: 4 credits (through Algebra II minimum)
Science: 3-4 credits (include Physics)
Social Studies: 3-4 credits (include Government)
Physical Education/Fitness: 2-3 credits (exceeding minimum)
Leadership/JROTC: 2-3 credits (if available)
Technical Electives: 2-3 credits
Foreign Language: 1-2 credits (recommended)
Key Military Admission Components:
ASVAB score: 50+ (31 minimum for Army, varies by branch)
Physical fitness: Meet or exceed branch standards
Clean legal and medical record
High school diploma or 15+ college credits
Strong character references
Leadership experience
Technical skills in desired career field
Military Fitness Standards to Meet by Graduation:
Army: 13 pushups, 17 situps, 16:36 2-mile run (female minimums)
Army: 35 pushups, 47 situps, 15:54 2-mile run (male minimums)
Other branches: Research specific requirements
DUAL ENROLLMENT STRATEGY (All Paths)
Dual enrollment provides external transcripts and demonstrates college readiness. Highly recommended for all paths, especially non-accredited homeschoolers.
When to Start Dual Enrollment
10th Grade: Take 1-2 courses if student is ready
11th Grade: Take 2-4 courses
12th Grade: Take 3-6 courses (can be full-time)
Best Courses for Dual Enrollment
English Composition I & II (meets college and high school requirements)
College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, or Statistics
US History I & II
Government and/or Economics
Foreign Language (if not taking elsewhere)
Lab sciences (Chemistry, Biology)
Career-specific courses (Business, IT, Engineering, etc.)
Benefits of Dual Enrollment
Creates external transcript (crucial for non-accredited homeschoolers)
Demonstrates ability to handle college-level work
Often free or low-cost through state programs
Credits transfer to most colleges
Provides access to college facilities and resources
Adds variety to homeschool experience
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES (All Paths)
Colleges, employers, and military all value well-rounded applicants.
Recommended Activities by Path
College Path:
Academic competitions (debate, mock trial, science olympiad)
Sports (school team, club, or individual sport)
Community service (100+ hours by graduation)
Clubs (start one if none exist locally)
Summer programs at colleges
Research projects or independent study
Music lessons or drama productions
Entrepreneurship Path:
Junior Achievement or DECA
Business competitions
Networking events
Volunteer work showing leadership
Skills training (certifications in marketing, design, etc.)
Mentorship relationships with entrepreneurs
Military Path:
Civil Air Patrol, Sea Cadets, or Young Marines
JROTC (if available)
Eagle Scout or Gold Award
Sports emphasizing teamwork and discipline
Community service
Leadership positions in any organization
Emergency response training (EMT, first responder)
TRANSCRIPT CREATION (Non-Accredited Path)
Transcript Must Include:
Student's full legal name
Homeschool name and address
Dates of attendance (9th-12th grade)
Course titles and credits earned each year
Grading scale used
GPA (weighted or unweighted)
Graduation date
Parent signature (as administrator)
School profile (separate document)
Course Description Portfolio:
Title of course
Credit value
Grade earned
Curriculum or textbooks used
Brief description (2-4 sentences)
List of major projects or assessments
Time documentation (for non-standard courses)
Sample Course Description:
Biology (1.0 Credit, Grade: A) This laboratory-based course covered cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human anatomy. The student completed 40+ hands-on labs including microscopy, dissections, and field studies. Primary resources included Apologia Biology textbook, Khan Academy videos, and local nature center programs. Assessment included lab reports, unit tests, and a semester research project on local watershed health.
TESTING REQUIREMENTS BY PATH
College Path:
SAT or ACT (required by most colleges)
PSAT/NMSQT (for National Merit Scholarship)
AP Exams (if taking AP courses)
SAT Subject Tests (rarely required now, but check specific colleges)
CLEP exams (optional, for college credit)
Entrepreneurship Path:
None required, but SAT/ACT helpful if considering any college
Industry certifications (Google Analytics, HubSpot, QuickBooks, etc.)
Military Path:
ASVAB (required)
SAT/ACT (required for service academies and ROTC scholarships)
Physical fitness testing
FINANCIAL PLANNING
College Path:
Submit FAFSA (opens October 1 of senior year)
Research scholarships starting junior year
Apply to 20-30 scholarships
Understand net price calculators
Consider community college for first 2 years
Research homeschool-specific scholarships
Entrepreneurship Path:
Apply for business grants and youth entrepreneur competitions
Research microloans (Kiva, ACCION)
Consider small business courses at community college (often free/cheap)
Look into SCORE mentorship (free)
Military Path:
Understand GI Bill benefits
Research ROTC scholarships
Learn about service academy full scholarships
Understand enlistment bonuses for certain career fields
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-ACCREDITED HOMESCHOOLERS
Building Credibility:
Dual enrollment is your best friend (external transcripts)
Take SAT/ACT even if not required (shows external validation)
Participate in academic competitions
Seek outside instruction for some subjects (co-op, online courses)
Document, document, document everything
Create detailed course descriptions
Keep samples of best work
Get letters of recommendation from non-family members
Common Questions Colleges Ask Homeschoolers:
Prepare to explain your educational philosophy
Be ready to provide reading lists
Have detailed transcripts ready
Create a school profile explaining grading system
Provide syllabi for major courses
Show external validation (test scores, dual enrollment, competitions)
STATE-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Important: Homeschool laws vary by state. Research your state's requirements:
Check if your state requires standardized testing
Verify if you need to file a declaration of intent
Understand your state's required subjects
Check if there are required hours of instruction
Know if your state requires specific credentials for homeschool parents
Research your state's compulsory attendance age
Resources:
HSLDA.org (Homeschool Legal Defense Association)
Your state's Department of Education website
Local homeschool support groups
FINAL YEAR CHECKLIST (Senior Year - All Paths)
Fall:
Update resume/activity list
Request letters of recommendation (give 2+ months)
Complete applications (college/military/scholarships)
Submit all required documents
Continue strong academic performance
Maintain extracurricular involvement
Winter:
Complete FAFSA (if applying to college)
Follow up on pending applications
Apply to additional scholarships
Prepare for interviews
Make final decisions on path forward
Spring:
Finalize choice (college/business plan/military contract)
Attend admitted student days or military prep
Complete all graduation requirements
Finish strong academically
Plan graduation celebration
Thank mentors and recommenders
Summer:
Prepare for transition (college move-in, business launch, basic training)
Complete any required orientations
Purchase necessary supplies/equipment
Say goodbyes and celebrate accomplishments
CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS
For College-Bound Students:
Start researching colleges EARLY (9th grade)
Take rigorous courses matching college requirements
Excel on SAT/ACT (test prep is worth it)
Build depth in extracurriculars (leadership matters)
Create compelling essays that show your unique homeschool story
Get external validation (dual enrollment, competitions, test scores)
For Entrepreneurs:
Start a real business before graduation (even small)
Document everything (income, expenses, learning)
Build actual skills (not just theory)
Network with real business owners
Create professional online presence
Learn to pitch and sell yourself
For Military-Bound Students:
Score high on ASVAB (more options with higher scores)
Exceed fitness standards (don't just meet minimums)
Research career fields thoroughly
Keep a clean record (legal and medical)
Show leadership experience
Understand what you're signing up for
This checklist provides the framework, but remember: homeschooling's greatest strength is flexibility. Adapt this plan to your student's unique interests, learning style, and goals. The key is intentional planning, thorough documentation, and staying focused on the end goal from freshman year forward.
Your student's success is not determined by whether they use an accredited program, but by the quality of education, documentation, and preparation you provide.
Make it stand out.
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Dream it.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
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Build it.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.