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:

  1. Start researching colleges EARLY (9th grade)

  2. Take rigorous courses matching college requirements

  3. Excel on SAT/ACT (test prep is worth it)

  4. Build depth in extracurriculars (leadership matters)

  5. Create compelling essays that show your unique homeschool story

  6. Get external validation (dual enrollment, competitions, test scores)

For Entrepreneurs:

  1. Start a real business before graduation (even small)

  2. Document everything (income, expenses, learning)

  3. Build actual skills (not just theory)

  4. Network with real business owners

  5. Create professional online presence

  6. Learn to pitch and sell yourself

For Military-Bound Students:

  1. Score high on ASVAB (more options with higher scores)

  2. Exceed fitness standards (don't just meet minimums)

  3. Research career fields thoroughly

  4. Keep a clean record (legal and medical)

  5. Show leadership experience

  6. 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Make It