Homeschool
Find Your Place at the University of Valley Forge
As passionate supporters of homeschool education, and with 15% of our student body coming from homeschool backgrounds, we understand and value the unique experiences and perspectives you bring to our academic community. Our dedicated staff and faculty, including many with direct homeschool experience, are here to guide you through your educational journey.
Our dual enrollment program offers high school sophomores, juniors and seniors the opportunity to earn both college and high school credits simultaneously through our General Education courses. This path can give you a head start on your college education while fulfilling your high school requirements – a strategy many of our homeschool families have found particularly valuable.
Key Program Features
• Flexible, online courses that fit your schedule
• Test-optional admissions process
• Supportive faculty who understand homeschool needs
• Simple enrollment through our part-time Admissions Application
While UVF provides college credit for all completed coursework, we recommend consulting with your homeschool program (ie Mason Dixon, PHAA) to confirm how these credits will apply toward your high school requirements.
UVF is Homeschool Friendly
Are you a homeschool parent who needs assistance with the college process? We can help! Email homeschool@valleyforge.edu and one of our team will contact you.
University of Valley Forge is Homeschool Friendly
Benefits of Dual Enrollment
- The average cost of a 4-year private college is $53,430/year, while UVF is $36,990/year!*
- Dual Enrollment offers up to a full year (30 credits) of college credits with savings over $34,740!**
- Complete 12 credits through our Dual Enrollment program and receive up to a $2,000 scholarship for UVF main campus students.
*UVF totals based on 2024-2025 fees for 12-18 credits, an unlimited meal plan, and living in premium double-occupancy air-conditioned residence halls. These figures do not include the cost of books, supplies, special fees, transportation, or personal expenses.
**24-25 UVF Dual Enrollment (DE) savings based on UVF DE students who complete 30 credits through our DE program.
Need Help With Your Transcript?
“The staff and faculty at UVF cared about me to make sure my transition from homeschool to college was painless. My RA was also very good at connecting with me to ensure that I could transition well and avoid homesickness.”
Jackson Wright '25
Admission FAQs
Do colleges accept homeschool transcripts?
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.
How do I create a homeschool transcript?
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.
Will colleges expect me to follow a traditional curriculum?
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.
Do I need standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, ACT, CLT)?
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.
How do I handle extracurricular activities and letters of recommendation?
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.
What if I don’t have a GPA or class rank?
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. .
Should I submit a portfolio of my work?
If your grading was pass/fail, a work sample does help us evaluate the rigor of your coursework.
Do homeschool students have the same opportunities for financial aid as public school students?
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.
How do I prove that my homeschooling is legitimate?
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.
Can I apply to college as a homeschool student even if I’ve been in a public or private school for part of high school?
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.
Do I need to submit a GED if I’m homeschooled?
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.
How do I make my application stand out?
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.
Should I schedule an interview with the admissions office?
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.
What if I don’t fit the traditional “high school” mold?
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.
How do I handle dual enrollment or community college credits?
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.
Are there special scholarships for homeschool students?
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.
