Homeschool scholarships: Opportunities for alternative learners

In the wake of the shift to remote work following the COVID-19 pandemic, many students have transitioned from traditional classroom settings to online education, making financial aid opportunities for homeschoolers an increasingly important topic. Homeschooling has gained popularity, with approximately 4 million students being homeschooled as of May 2024. After high school, many students who completed their education at home transition to more traditional learning environments at undergraduate colleges or trade schools. However, finding homeschool scholarships can be challenging, especially since standardized testing for homeschoolers is often required but not always easily accessible.

To help bridge this gap, we’ve compiled a list of scholarships specifically for homeschooled students, along with their general requirements. Factors such as standardized test scores (i.e., ACT, SAT, and CLT scores), extracurricular activities, and service-related experiences are often considered in scholarship decisions. To meet these requirements, homeschoolers must make additional efforts to access opportunities and resources that are often readily available in more conventional high school environments. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or have been on this educational journey for years, these opportunities can help support your higher education goals and guide you through the requirements for accessing financial aid.

Note: This article provides an overview of various homeschool scholarships, some of which may require standardized assessment scores. Please refer to the respective scholarship providers’ websites for full details on application requirements and eligibility.

Scholarships for homeschooled students

Sonlight Scholarship

The Sonlight Scholarship is a Christian-based scholarship for homeschooled students who have purchased a minimum of five full Sonlight Curriculum programs. Applicants must meet either the “Green” or “Blue” criteria, which consider factors such as academic standing, spiritual values, and acts of kindness.

• Award amount: $1,000 to $5,000 per year (up to four years)
• More information: Visit the scholarship website

Student Excellence Scholarship

This competitive scholarship is awarded to 100 Wisconsin high school graduates each year, including homeschooled students. Applicants must be residents of Wisconsin and plan to attend a private or public university, college, or trade school.

• Award amount: $10,000
• More information: Visit the scholarship website

Emmett Comer Scholarship

This scholarship, named in honor of homeschool advocate Emmett Comer, is available to Washington state residents who are members of the Washington Homeschool Organization (WHO). Applicants must submit an essay detailing how homeschooling has impacted their lives and education.

• Award amount: Up to $1,000
• More information: Visit the scholarship resource page

Zell Miller Scholarship

Designed for academically outstanding Georgia residents, the Zell Miller Scholarship is available to both traditional and homeschooled students who plan to attend an eligible college or university.

• Award amount: Varies by institution
• More information: Visit the scholarship website

HOPE Scholarship

The HOPE Scholarship is a merit-based award for Georgia residents with strong academic records. Homeschooled students may qualify for this scholarship as incoming freshmen or retroactively after completing 30 semester hours of college coursework.

• Award amount: Varies by institution
• More information: Visit the scholarship website

NCHE Scholarship

Since 1988, the North Carolinians for Home Education (NCHE) Scholarship Program has been assisting homeschool graduates. Applicants must be full-time North Carolina homeschool students and members of NCHE. Various scholarship categories are available, but recipients can only receive one award.

• Award amount: Varies
• More information: Visit the scholarship website

Bryan College Homeschool Grant

Bryan College, a Christian liberal arts institution in Dayton, Tennessee, provides one of the notable grants for homeschooling students. This renewable grant is specifically designed for applicants who have completed at least the last two years of high school through homeschooling. As part of its commitment to supporting grants for homeschooling, Bryan College awards this financial assistance automatically upon acceptance.

• Award amount: $500
• More information: Learn more about grants for homeschooling at Bryan College’s financial aid page

Central Christian College of Kansas Homeschool Scholarship

Located in McPherson, Kansas, Central Christian College offers a variety of scholarships, including a substantial award for homeschooled students.

• Award amount: 50% of tuition
• More information: Visit the scholarship resource page

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do homeschoolers get into college?

Home-schooled students apply to college the same way that conventional students do. Many colleges participate in the Common Application program, which allows students to apply to multiple colleges using the same application materials. The most important factors homeschoolers must consider are:

1. Their home-based curriculum aligns with the state's educational standards and prepares them for undergraduate studies.
2. Recommendation letters are written by individuals outside of the family, even if family members were the primary instructors. This emphasizes the importance of building a network through homeschool co-ops, extracurricular activities, volunteering, or other similar programs.
3. Students take time in their essays to elaborate on their background and what unique skills and experiences they will bring to college, trade school, or other post-secondary institutions.

Can homeschoolers qualify for federal financial aid?

Yes! Homeschoolers are fully eligible for financial aid for homeschooling, including federal grants, student loans, and work-study opportunities. This means families can access grants for homeschooling and related financial support by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The most important factor is that your home education program meets your state’s legal requirements.

Are there scholarships specifically for homeschoolers?

Absolutely! Many scholarships are specifically designed for homeschooled students, as listed in this article. Additionally, homeschoolers can apply for general scholarships based on merit, need, leadership, and extracurricular involvement.

What should homeschoolers include in scholarship applications?

Homeschool students navigating standardized testing for homeschoolers should be prepared to submit comprehensive transcripts, standardized test scores (when required), letters of recommendation, and personal essays as part of their application materials. To strengthen admissions and scholarship prospects, some programs may also require homeschoolers to include portfolios that showcase their academic achievements or extracurricular involvement. Demonstrating academic rigor through standardized testing and well-organized documentation supports homeschoolers' ability to gain admission to college and secure scholarship opportunities.

What if my parent is a veteran or currently serving in the military?

Numerous scholarships are available for students from military families. If your parent is a veteran or currently serving in the military, you may be eligible for additional scholarships, such as the Fisher House Foundation Scholarships for Military Children or the ThanksUSA Scholarship, as well as service-specific awards from branches like the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Be sure to check military-affiliated organizations for more opportunities.

Can homeschoolers apply for merit-based scholarships?

Yes, homeschoolers remain fully eligible for merit-based scholarships as long as they satisfy the necessary academic or extracurricular standards. Colleges and universities widely recognize homeschool transcripts, and college admissions exams play a crucial role in verifying academic achievement during the admissions process. Admissions officers often consider standardized test scores alongside coursework, which helps demonstrate a homeschooler’s readiness for college. Additionally, institutions often regard standardized testing for homeschoolers as a reliable measure when reviewing scholarship applications, making it a crucial part of how homeschoolers gain admission to college. Many scholarship programs are accessible to homeschooled students who provide valid transcripts, strong test results, and comprehensive documentation of their extracurricular involvement.

Final thoughts

Homeschool students often face unique challenges when seeking scholarships and grants for homeschooling, but numerous opportunities exist to support their academic and financial needs. By researching these financial aid programs and thoroughly reviewing each scholarship’s eligibility criteria, homeschoolers can discover grants and assistance tailored specifically to their educational path. Always check each scholarship’s official website for the latest details on application deadlines and requirements.

For homeschooled students aiming to maximize their financial aid options, continue exploring a wide range of scholarships and grants for homeschooling. With persistence in searching and applying, your educational ambitions, whether it’s gaining college admission or securing essential funding, are within reach!