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How to be Successful in Online College

Maybe you’ve thought that you’d like to go to college online…but the idea is daunting. Here are some tips to let you know that you can do it!

You will have a dedicated academic advisor to help you with:

  • Registration
  • Ordering your textbooks
  • Time management skills
  • Connecting with professors
  • …and any question you may have!

Time Management

  • Take classes at a pace that works for you. We usually have students start with two classes a semester. Taking one class is also an option. That helps you see what the course load is like and how it fits into your life.
  • We always check for transfer credits that can be applied toward your major. This saves you time and money.
  • There is no required class time…you can do school on your lunches, in the evening, on weekends, or whenever it works for you. Just be sure to submit assignments by the due date.
  • Block out times throughout the week when you know you’ll be able to focus. Add those times to your calendar.

Here is a sample schedule that builds in work, family, friends, ministry, rest, and of course school:

Navigating Online Classes

  • Our classes are all set-up very similarly in an easy to navigate platform.
  • Your advisor will give you access to a tutorial for that platform.
  • You can also ask your advisor and professors any questions you may have about the platform or classes.

Getting Connected

  • Our staff and faculty care about you! They will help you with your academics, pray with you, encourage you, and would love to talk with you about your career goals and what steps to take to get there. 
  • Get to know our faculty here. 
  • Join our Chapel livestream and watch the archives: UVF Chapel. 
  • Stay connected with us on social media: UVF Instagram, UVF Facebook, and UVF TikTok.   

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Admissions FAQs

Yes, most colleges and universities accept homeschool transcripts. You’ll need to create a transcript that lists all courses taken, grades earned, and a brief description of each subject. Many colleges may ask for additional documentation to verify the curriculum or learning outcomes. 

A homeschool transcript should include the following:   

  • Student’s name and contact information   
  • A list of courses by grade level (9th-12th)   
  • The grades and credits earned for each course   
  • GPA  

You can use online tools or templates to help structure your transcript.

Transcript Template (Right-click and “Save Link As” to download)

No, colleges understand that homeschool students may follow a non-traditional curriculum. You are not required to use a specific homeschooling program, but the courses should be rigorous and meet the academic standards of the college. 

UVF is test-optional, . It’s best to check each college’s specific testing policy. If you submit them, we will use those test scores for placement into math and English courses.  If you don’t submit test scores, we have placement tests that we designed that you will take instead. 

Homeschool students are encouraged to get involved in extracurricular activities (sports, clubs, volunteering, internships, etc.). For letters of recommendation, you can ask mentors, tutors, employers, or community leaders who are familiar with your work and character. We understand that your experiences may look different from those of traditional students. 

Homeschool students typically don’t have a GPA or class rank based on a standardized grading system. You may be asked to provide your grading scale (e.g., A = 90-100, B = 80-89, etc.) and explain how you evaluate coursework. . 

If your grading was pass/fail, a work sample does help us evaluate the rigor of your coursework. 

Yes, homeschooled students are eligible for the same federal and state financial aid (e.g., FAFSA) as other students. You are also eligible for institutional scholarships. 

You may be asked to provide documentation showing that your homeschooling complies with the laws of your state (e.g., notice of intent to homeschool, records of testing or assessments). We are familiar with most states’ homeschool laws. 

Yes, you can still apply as a homeschooled student if you were homeschooled for any portion of high school. You’ll need to explain the structure of your education and provide transcripts for both your public/private school and homeschool years, if applicable. 

A GED is not required if you have completed your high school education through homeschooling, provided you can submit a detailed transcript and meet the other application requirements. However, if you took the GED, you may submit those scores as part of your application if they are beneficial. 

We value the self-motivation and discipline that often come with homeschooling.  Our homeschooled students typically excel in academic curiosity, resilience, and ability to work independently. 

We always encourage students to come for an on-campus visit.  It can be a great opportunity to showcase your personality and explain your homeschooling background in person. It’s also a chance to ask questions about the college and demonstrate your interest in the school. 

Homeschooling allows you to tailor your education to your interests and strengths. We appreciate the diversity of perspectives that homeschool students bring, so don’t be afraid to highlight how your education has been non-traditional but still rigorous and meaningful. 

If you’ve taken college-level courses during high school (dual enrollment), make sure to include those credits on your application. You’ll need to request official transcripts from the college(s) where you took courses and submit them to your prospective schools. 

Some scholarships are specifically for homeschool graduates. These may be offered by homeschool associations, local foundations, or certain colleges. It’s a good idea to research scholarships in your area or inquire about opportunities at the colleges you’re applying to.